Alistair Phillips-Davies, the long-serving Chief Executive of SSE, has announced his intention to retire in 2025 after more than 11 years at the helm of the energy giant.
The move comes as SSE continues to solidify its position as a leader in the UK’s clean energy transition.
Under Phillips-Davies’ leadership, SSE has transformed into a major player in renewable energy and critical infrastructure.
The company has invested heavily in wind farms, electricity networks, and other clean power projects, including the recently energised Shetland HVDC link and the ongoing construction of the world’s largest offshore wind farm, Dogger Bank.
Sir John Manzoni, SSE’s Chair, said: “Alistair has been an exceptional Chief Executive. Under his leadership, the Group has transformed into a genuine energy transition leader, sharpening its focus on networks, renewables and flexibility, whilst successfully entering new markets.
“Over his 11 years as Chief Executive he has assembled a world-class team around him and created a legacy of critical clean electricity infrastructure.
“Alistair has also grown SSE’s UK and Irish core, whilst expanding into selected overseas markets, leaving the Company extremely well positioned to continue creating long-term, sustainable value for society and shareholders under his successor.
“There will be a smooth and orderly transition with Alistair continuing to lead the Company until a successor is appointed and of course our net zero aligned strategy remains unchanged.”
He assured stakeholders that the company’s net-zero aligned strategy would remain unchanged during the transition.
Alistair Phillips-Davies, Chief Executive, said: “Being Chief Executive of SSE is an immense privilege and I am extremely proud of what we have achieved over the past decade – right across the Group – as we have steadily grown into becoming the UK and Ireland’s clean energy champion.
“We have come a long, long way thanks to the hard work and talent of countless colleagues during that time, and it has been an amazing experience to be part of this great team in the UK, Ireland and now further afield.
“I remain fully committed to growing the business until my successor is found and continue to be fully focused on delivering our clean power strategy with the rest of our highly capable executive team.”
The search for Phillips-Davies’ successor will consider both internal candidates and the wider market, with the current Chief Executive remaining in place to ensure a smooth handover.
As SSE continues its £20 billion investment programme in clean power infrastructure, the incoming leader will be tasked with building on the company’s strong foundation in the rapidly evolving energy sector.
