Alan Barlow is stepping down as chairman of EEEGR, the East of England Energy Group, after a two-year stint helping steer the association through a period of change and development.
He became the first executive chairman of the 380-member group in 2010 and the formal announcement of his departure came at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting on October 19.
“It was a two-year fixed contract and I’m delighted we have achieved so much in that time frame,” said Mr Barlow . “I’m grateful that EEEGR allowed me to put something back into industry after completing 25 years of work in international business, with much of it being in the energy sector.
“I look forward to retaining contact with EEEGR and follow its invaluable work for the region’s energy sector with great interest as I concentrate my efforts on my charity work. I firmly believe that EEEGR is eminently placed to assist industry and the public sector to bring forward successfully over £30bn of investment opportunities in the sector across the region.”
During his time in post, Alan has helped to achieve significant funding for the group through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The funding has enabled EEEGR to expand its vital work in supporting the development of the energy supply chain in the East of England.
Alan has also been instrumental in developing a wider political, international and influential role for the group with a new initiative launched in the House of Commons; and a long-term business plan. He was closely involved in the formation of NSEA (the Norfolk and Suffolk Energy Alliance) to introduce a dedicated programme of inward investment promotion and related public relations campaign for the region as a world-leading all-energy hub.
EEEGR chief executive Simon Gray added: “I’d like to thank Alan for his commitment and endeavour for EEEGR and wish him well in future. I’m also grateful for his support during the time I have been settling into my new role here.”
Former chairman Mark Goodall said: “Over the last two years, Alan has provided EEEGR with excellent leadership in his role as executive chairman. On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Alan for the commitment, expertise and energy he has given to the organisation and the East of England. We wish him well in continuing his charity work.”
The new chairman’s role will revert to an honorary non-executive position and the successful candidate will be announced shortly.
Aker Solutions area manager Mark Goodall, Mott MacDonald technical director Mark Frith and Claxton Engineering Services’ Richard Jenkins, were elected to the EEEGR board.
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Press release, October 22, 2012; Image: EEEGR