SSE has named Martin Pibworth as its new chief executive following a competitive recruitment process. Pibworth will take over the role from the current chief executive, Alistair Phillips-Davies CBE, who announced plans to retire in November 2024. Pibworth’s appointment will be effective after the company’s annual general meeting (AGM) on July 17, 2025.
Pibworth, who joined SSE in 1998, has held several key commercial roles within the company over the past three decades. He joined the Executive Committee in 2012 and the Board in 2017. As chief commercial officer, Pibworth has overseen SSE’s Renewables, Thermal, Energy Markets, and Energy Customer Solutions businesses.
His base salary will be £970,000 per year, with an increase to over £1 million in April 2026.
SSE chairman Sir John Manzoni expressed confidence in Pibworth’s leadership, saying, “The Board is delighted to have appointed Martin as our new chief executive. Martin is a proven industry leader, with deep sector experience and a highly strategic outlook, demonstrating all of the attributes needed to be a successful chief executive at this hugely exciting time for the company.”
Manzoni also paid tribute to the outgoing CEO, Phillips-Davies, noting, “Alistair has been an exceptional chief executive, leading the company’s transition into being the UK and Ireland’s clean energy champion, whilst delivering true and lasting value for all of our stakeholders. As well as his legacy at SSE, his support in ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities continues to be greatly appreciated.”
Pibworth expressed his enthusiasm about taking on the role, stating, “I’m excited to be leading SSE as the company embarks on its next stage of evolution and growth. As an integrated electricity group focused on the energy transition, we are well-placed for long-term growth from our established positions in networks, renewables and flexibility.
He added, “In our highly dynamic operating environment, we have the capabilities and portfolio to manage complexity and volatility, whilst pivoting towards value as it emerges. I look forward to continuing to work with governments, shareholders and other stakeholders on powering society’s needs whilst creating sustainable value as we electrify the economy.
