Weston to take over as new chief of Aggreko

BRITISH GAS boss Chris Weston was yesterday revealed as the new CEO of Glasgow temporary power firm Aggreko.

The Glasgow based generator group — gearing up to supply the World Cup in Rio, the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup during a busy summer — was “pleased” to announce the appointment after the departure of long-term chief Rupert Soames last month.

Mr Weston’s departure is subject to a 12-month notice period, but Centrica said it would make a further announcement about the time of his departure in due course.

“Chris brings senior experience of the energy industry and proven leadership skills in a large international business,” said Aggreko chairman Ken Hanna.

Interim CEO Angus Cockburn will continue his role meantime, but will step down later in the year.

The company said that Mr Cockburn had decided not to apply for the role on a permanent basis and — following 14 years with the company, most as chief financial officer — would seek out fresh challenges.

Interim chief financial officer Carole Cran has had her position made permanent and will join the Aggreko board.

Mr Weston, who joined Centrica in 2001 following a career in the telecoms industry and a spell serving in the Royal Artillery, said he was excited to be taking on a role with the “fascinating” business.

His basic salary will be £750,000.

His departure comes as Centrica faces political pressure on household bills, a squeeze on profits and a full-scale inquiry into the energy sector.

It also leaves a widening gap in the senior ranks, following the loss of finance chief Nick Luff later this year and reports chief executive Sam Laidlaw is to move on.