Promoting her at this stage makes no sense from a business perspective. Not sure if she has the credentials to be a VP. What tasks can she do that aren't done by ES. 

Getting a resource estimate on EH is huge. The more I think about the lack of news and theses kinds of moves the more it seems likely that the company will be bought out in its entirety. Lynne gets an executive bonus for all her years of service; or stays on to ease the transition into a new entity with an enhanced salary. 

I doubt it will happen "soon" but possibly before the suggested timeline. Jmo.