Phil has led the Board through a critical period for both the energy sector and the National Gas business, including our separation from National Grid plc. Mark’s appointment in 2026 will coincide with the closure of our RIIO-T2 Business Plan and the commencement of our five-year RIIO-GT3 Business Plan as National Gas invests to protect and enhance the UK’s energy security and resilience.

Mark is a highly regarded businessman and public servant. He is Chair of Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the procurement organisation of the Ministry of Defence, and of Angel Trains, one of Britain’s leading railway asset management businesses. Mark has extensive experience in private infrastructure companies and government bodies, including as Chief Executive of UK Government Investments (UKGI). He has a background in corporate finance, joining government from KPMG where he was a corporate finance partner.

Throughout the remainder of 2025, Phil and Mark will work with the Board and the Executive to ensure a smooth transition.

Dr Phil Nolan said: "I am delighted to be passing the stewardship of the Board over to Mark, who will bring a wealth of leadership experience. With his deep public and private sector experience, I am very confident he will successfully lead the company through the next regulatory period and support National Gas in its decarbonisation journey.

"It has been a great privilege to be the Chair of National Gas since early 2023 and oversee its development as a standalone company. The foundations have been laid for a strong and successful future. I’d like to thank Jon for his leadership of the business and I wish him, Mark and the Board, and everyone at National Gas well for an exciting future ahead."

Mark Russell said: “I would like to thank Phil for his leadership of the Board and I look forward to commencing my role as Chair in January 2026. Since joining the Board in 2024 I have been impressed by the focus on safe, efficient and sustainable operations within National Gas, and the dedication of everyone within the business to maintaining security of supply to the UK.

"I look forward to continuing to work with our regulators, the government and other national bodies and stakeholders to secure Britain’s energy whilst enabling the transition to a clean energy system. This decade will include critical decisions for energy security as well as clean energy technologies, including hydrogen and carbon capture, and I am confident that National Gas will play a central role in achieving these ambitions.”

Jon Butterworth, Chief Executive said: “The Company and I extend our gratitude to Phil for his leadership and for the contribution he has made since the company became a standalone business. He has led the Board through considerable changes since its current formation in early 2023. His knowledge, passion for the business and advice to me have been much valued, particularly as we navigated through the final years of RIIO-T2 and in preparation for our next regulatory period, RIIO-GT3.

"We look forward to welcoming Mark as Chair. His extensive business experience and knowledge will be invaluable as we get ready for the exciting next phase of our journey at National Gas.”