ScottishPower has confirmed Vicky Kelsall as the new chief executive of its SP Energy Networks business, taking over from Frank Mitchell on his retirement.
She brings more than 30 years’ experience in the energy sector, working across electricity networks in the UK and US, alongside retail in the UK.
Kelsall has worked in international roles for ScottishPower with PacifiCorp and, most recently, with its parent group Iberdrola in North America at Avangrid. Previously, she was chief operating officer of SP Energy Networks, responsible for all transmission and distribution operations.
Kelsall commented: “SP Energy Networks holds the key to unlocking the net zero future for homes and businesses across our transmission and distribution areas and has outlined bold plans to ensure we can decarbonise in the most cost-effective way for consumers.
“It’s a privilege to take over the reins at this crucial time and I look forward to working with the team to get on and deliver in the months and years ahead.”
She will have an initial handover period with Mitchell starting later this month, before fully taking up the position before the end of this year.
Mitchell started his more than 30-year career at ScottishPower as a graduate engineer in networks, moving through multiple senior roles covering retail, generation and corporate in the UK and US, before his appointment as chief executive of SP Energy Networks in October 2009.
As its leader, he secured expanded power export capacity from Scotland, improved operational efficiency and surpassed targets set by Ofgem across transmission and distribution, as well as steering the business through both the financial crash and the pandemic.
Keith Anderson, chief executive of ScottishPower, said: “During his time at ScottishPower, Frank has driven the business to success with huge levels of investment in significant infrastructure to support the transition to a cleaner, greener electricity system – all while delivering safe, reliable power to millions across the nation.
“Vicky takes over SP Energy Networks at a crucial time for the UK energy system as we rapidly progress our plans for decarbonisation.
“Her experience in the sector and pedigree in delivering for customers will stand the business in good stead as it moves into a hugely transformative period with billions in investment to transition the GB electricity network to a net zero future.”
Kelsall becomes the only woman at the helm of a British electricity distribution network business - one of only two transmission businesses - and SP Energy Network’s first female chief executive.
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