National Grid announces changes to leadership structure to deliver on significant infrastructure projects

The energy regulator Ofgem confirmed in December that National Grid will be responsible for the delivery of 17 major onshore electricity transmission projects, which are critical to a more affordable, resilient and clean energy system.  This investment is fundamental to the successful delivery of the decarbonization of our electricity system, and will also bring greater security of supply, as well as improved affordability for customers in the long run.

To deliver on the magnitude of new infrastructure that’s needed to reach net zero, National Grid has appointed Carl Trowell to lead a new business unit, focused on delivery of these 17 projects, as well as other strategic projects to help the UK government meet its net zero targets. National Grid’s existing Electricity Transmission business unit will operate the new projects once constructed.

Trowell will join National Grid in February 2023 and will sit on the Group Executive. He joins from the marine energy and infrastructure services company Acteon Group, having spent the majority of his career at Schlumberger, before joining Ensco (now Volaris) as CEO. Carl brings a wealth of operational leadership experience to National Grid and his appointment will further increase the strength of our Group Executive.

Alice Delahunty will remain President of Electricity Transmission.

National Grid also announces that Phil Swift, President of National Grid Electricity Distribution will leave the business on 31 March. Swift has made a huge contribution to the business and the industry during his 30 combined years at National Grid, Western Power Distribution and its predecessors.

Following Phil Swift’s departure, Cordi O’Hara will be appointed President of National Grid Electricity Distribution with effect from 1 April.  O’Hara already sits on National Grid’s Group Executive where she is currently President of National Grid Ventures.

Ben Wilson, Chief Strategy and External Affairs Officer, will take up the role of President of National Grid Ventures, in addition to his current Group Executive role, on an interim basis.

John Pettigrew, Chief Executive of National Grid, said:

These changes will further strengthen our existing operating model and underscore our commitment to help the government realise its net zero ambitions, as we continue to deliver on our vision to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future.

I’d like to thank Phil Swift for everything he has done to lead Electricity Distribution through its initial integration into National Grid, and am delighted to welcome Carl Trowell to the business at such an important time in the energy transition.

For media information only:

Please contact Danielle Dominey-Kent at [email protected] or 07977 054575.