Electricity North West, the region’s electricity distribution network operator, has announced the appointment of Chris Johns to the board on 25 May 2023 as Chief Financial Officer.

Chris has previously been CFO of Yorkshire Water, a role he held from June 2020. He has also previously held the roles of Finance Director of both Northumbrian Water Group and Northern Gas Networks, and before that worked in the regulated financial services industry.

Commenting on his appointment, Electricity North West’s Chief Executive Officer, Ian Smyth, said: “We are delighted with this appointment after a comprehensive UK-wide search. Chris is a recognised CFO in the industry combining financial acumen with regulatory insight. Chris will contribute to our reputation as a leading regulated network.”

Alistair Buchanan, Chairman of the Company, added: “Chris brings great financial experience from a number of regulated businesses and will be a great asset as the company enters its latest price control. Chris will help the business continue to deliver on our key commitments in safety, customer service, reliability, innovation and efficiency.”

Chris Johns said: “I’m delighted to be joining Electricity North West at such an important time given the challenges of ED2 that lie ahead. Electricity North West is a hugely respected and great company, and I'm excited to be joining the business and getting to know and work with all teams, both in finance as well as across the wider business.”

Chris replaces David Brocksom who is retiring from the board on 25 May having been with Electricity North West since 2013 and on the board since 2015.