PP&L Resources, Inc. (NYSE: PPL) announced today (6/2) that James E. Abel has been appointed vice president-Finance and treasurer of the company effective June 1.

Abel also will serve as vice president-Finance and treasurer for PP&L, Inc., PP&L Resources' largest subsidiary. Abel had been treasurer since 1996.

As vice president-Finance and treasurer, Abel is responsible for the administration of corporate finance, procurement activities, insurance, cash receipts and credit risk, cash disbursements, payroll, and financial risk management activities.

Abel will report to John R. Biggar, senior vice president and chief financial officer of PP&L Resources and PP&L, Inc.

"This promotion recognizes Jim's many contributions over the years including the direct role he played in last year's financial restructuring as part of the company's transition to a growth-oriented focus," said Biggar. "It also recognizes his leadership as PP&L Resources continues its steps to grow its earnings and enhance shareowner value."

A certified management accountant and certified financial manager, Abel earned a bachelor's degree in accounting and a master of business administration degree from Lehigh University. He is a member of the Treasury Management Association of Central Pennsylvania and is an adjunct professor of finance at Allentown College of St. Francis de Sales in Allentown, Pa.

A native of Philadelphia, Pa., Abel began his PP&L, Inc. career as an accountant and has held a number of positions in the Financial Department, including manager-Treasury from 1984 to 1995, manager-Corporate Audit Services from 1995 to 1996, and treasurer from 1996 to 1999.