Neil Kirkby Appointed as IES Chief Executive Officer

IES Utilities Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Neil Kirkby as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective today. Neil joins the business with more than two decades of senior leadership experience across utilities, infrastructure, and energy, with a proven track record of driving growth, transformation, and operational excellence. He will be partnering with former CEO Breandan Flynn, who today takes on the role of Executive Chairman, continuing to play a key role in shaping the company’s strategic direction.

About Neil Kirkby

Neil joined SSE Enterprise as Managing Director in January 2017, helping transform it into SSE Energy Solutions, a leader in distriuted energy solutions supporting customers to decarbonise. He also served as a Board Member for SSE’s 50% owned Telecoms business. Before SSE, Neil was Managing Director, Global Power Networks at Balfour Beatty plc and previously served as CEO of Enterprise Ltd. With more than 23 years of senior leadership experience in listed and private equity environments, including 19 years at Main Board and Executive Committee level, Neil brings extensive expertise in strategic development, mergers & acquisitions, operational efficiency, and major infrastructure projects across multiple sectors.

 

Neil Kirkby, CEO of IES, said: 

I’m delighted to join IES at such an exciting point in its journey. The company has a strong foundation and a clear opportunity to play a leading role in delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions for customers. Building on the fantastic work delivered by Breandan Flynn and the team, I’m excited to partner with Breandan in his new role as Executive Chairman as we guide the business through its next stage of development and growth. With turnover continuing to increase, this is a pivotal moment to take IES to the next level and strengthen its position as a leader in the utilities and energy infrastructure market. I look forward to working with the team and the Board to drive further growth, development, and innovation.”

 

Breandan Flynn, IES Executive Chair, commented: “It has been a privilege to lead IES and see the business grow from strength to strength, and I am delighted to welcome Neil as our new CEO. His appointment is a clear endorsement of the strength of the IES business and its leading position in the market. I look forward to partnering with Neil in my new role as Executive Chairman, continuing to support the business as it enters its next stage of expansion and development. Together, I am confident we will see IES reach new milestones under his leadership.”