UGI finds next general counsel

UGI Corporation has hired Kathleen Shea Ballay as general counsel and chief legal officer, effective June 12.

She will succeed Monica Gaudiosi, who is retiring as UGI’s vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary. Gaudiosi will remain with the company until mid-July to help with the transition.

Shea Ballay most recently was general counsel, secretary and chief compliance officer at Lotus Midstream, an independent energy company focused on developing crude oil midstream infrastructure and distribution. She was previously senior vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary at Sunoco Logistics Partners, where she led the legal, governance and compliance functions, having previously been deputy general counsel and chair of corporate transactions and securities at Sunoco. Before moving in-house she was a partner in the corporate and securities group at law firm Pepper Hamilton.

Gaudiosi has been vice president, general counsel and secretary of UGI Corporation and UGI Utilities since 2012. She is also vice president, general counsel and secretary of AmeriGas Propane.

Before 2021, Gaudiosi was senior vice president and general counsel (from 2007 to 2012) and senior vice president and associate general counsel (from 2005 to 2007) of Southern Union Company. She had previously held positions with General Electric Capital Corporation from 1997 to 2005, prior to which she was an associate at the law firms of Hunton & Williams (from 1994 to 1997) and Sutherland Asbill & Brennan (from 1988 to 1994).

Roger Perreault, UGI’s president and CEO, says in a statement: ‘I want to express my deepest appreciation for Monica’s dedication to the company and the legal expertise and guidance that she has provided during her tenure. Under Monica’s leadership, our legal function has effectively supported a broad range of projects, including M&A activity, transformation initiatives and other emerging issues in our complex and rapidly changing environment. Monica has developed a well-respected and resilient team that will continue the high level of commitment and integrity that she brought to UGI every day.

‘It is my pleasure to welcome Kathleen Shea Ballay to UGI. Kathleen has extensive experience in the energy sector, which will be invaluable as we look to strengthen our core businesses and drive further growth across our portfolio. She will oversee our global legal function while also serving as a valued voice in building our business.’