SSE Plc names Martin Pibworth as Chief Executive designate

LONDON: SSE plc has appointed Martin Pibworth as its next Chief Executive, set to formally assume the role following the company’s Annual General Meeting on July 17, 2025. The announcement follows current Chief Executive Alistair Phillips-Davies CBE’s decision to retire, which was announced in November 2024.

Pibworth, who joined SSE in 1998, brings decades of experience to the role, having held several key positions within the company. He joined SSE’s Executive Committee in 2012 and became a Board member in 2017. As Chief Commercial Officer, he has overseen the company’s Renewables, Thermal, Energy Markets and Energy Customer Solutions businesses. Outside SSE, Pibworth is Chair of CBI Scotland and has served on the Energy UK Board.

SSE Chair Sir John Manzoni praised Pibworth as “a proven industry leader with deep sector experience and a highly strategic outlook,” noting the strength of candidates considered during the competitive recruitment process. Manzoni also lauded Phillips-Davies for his leadership in transforming SSE into a clean energy champion and ensuring a smooth transition.

In his new role, Pibworth emphasized SSE’s readiness to capitalize on growth opportunities as the integrated electricity group focuses on energy transition. “We have the capabilities and portfolio to manage complexity and volatility while pivoting toward value,” Pibworth said. He pledged to collaborate with governments, shareholders, and stakeholders to power societal needs while creating sustainable value.

The succession process, led by Sir John Manzoni and the Nomination Committee with support from Korn Ferry, considered a strong field of internal and external candidates as part of the company’s long-term planning efforts.

Phillips-Davies will remain Chief Executive until the AGM and continue as non-Executive Chair of SSEN Distribution until his departure in November 2025. Following the AGM, SSE’s Board will consist of 11 members: the Chair, two Executive Directors, and eight independent non-Executive Directors.