Jon, who was appointed as Chief Executive of National Grid Gas in 2021, became National Gas’ inaugural Chief Executive in 2023. After five years at the helm, he will leave the business in the first half of next year.

Under Jon’s leadership, National Gas has become a purpose-led, performance-focussed, and innovative organisation. He has led and shaped the new business, developing a strong, talented team, building trust with Government and key stakeholders and working tirelessly to secure Britain’s energy. The RIIO-GT3 settlement received in December 2025, whereby the business secured increased funding to ensure the ongoing safe, secure and reliable operation of the National Transmission System, is a fitting testament to his tenure.  

Jon began his career as an apprentice for North West Gas. In his early career he held a variety of roles in British Gas and Transco, before taking on several senior positions in National Grid including Managing Director – North West, National Operations Director (Gas), Group Director – Safety, Resilience, Health and Environment and Chief Executive of National Grid Ventures.  

Next year, Jon will leave behind a business firmly on strong footing from which to deliver its RIIO-GT3 commitments and beyond.

Jon Butterworth MBE, FREng, FIoD said:

"I’m exceptionally proud of my time at National Gas and will look back with great satisfaction at the challenges we have overcome, the improvements we have delivered and the performance-driven business we are becoming.

It is, of course, with some sadness that I’ve decided to retire, but I know National Gas is in a strong position. There is a dedicated, skilled leadership team, a driven, enthusiastic staff and a supportive Board – all committed to our purpose of securing Britain’s energy.  

There’s still plenty to do before I retire from my role next year. Until then, I remain focussed on the job in hand, and eager to ensure that I leave National Gas in the best possible shape, and delivering on all fronts efficiently, effectively and professionally."

Mark Russell CBE, Chair, National Gas, said:  

"The Board and I would like to record our gratitude to Jon for his commitment and invaluable contribution to National Gas – to say nothing of everything he has achieved in his five-decades long career in the energy sector.  

Jon’s charismatic leadership has built a strong and authoritative National Gas. In turn, Jon is well respected and trusted both internally and externally, and his enthusiasm, dedication and expertise will be much missed.  

I also want to express publicly my own personal thanks to Jon for the time and care he has taken to help me in my role and to hit the ground running as Chair. He has been an exceptional Chief Executive, and he leaves behind a legacy of which he should be rightly proud."  

The process to appoint Jon’s successor is underway with an announcement expected in due course.