Jonathan Brearley, currently Chief Executive of Ofgem, has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, following approval from the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretary.
Brearley brings decades of senior leadership experience across government and the energy sector, including a strong track record of driving reform, championing consumer protection and shaping long‑term climate policy. He replaces Clive Maxwell, who has served as Interim Permanent Secretary while a full external recruitment process was carried out.
As CEO of Ofgem, Brearley has led the UK’s independent energy regulator through one of the most turbulent periods in recent energy history. His leadership has focused on strengthening consumer protections, addressing energy affordability, and supporting market stability during unprecedented price volatility.
Commenting on his new role, Brearley said:
“It’s a real privilege to be appointed as Permanent Secretary at DESNZ at such a defining moment across UK Energy.
“My time at Ofgem has been defined by the mission of protecting consumers and navigating the complexities of the UK energy transition. I am proud of what the team there has achieved, and I carry these lessons with me as I move into this new role.
“Working alongside the Secretary of State, Ministers and the dedicated civil servants at DESNZ, I look forward to continuing the Department’s focus on bringing down bills and delivering clean, homegrown power.”
Before joining Ofgem, Brearley held senior roles across Whitehall, including:
- Head of the Office of Climate Change, where he helped develop the landmark Climate Change Act
- Senior leadership positions at the former Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), where he oversaw major reforms to the electricity market
His blend of regulatory, operational and policy expertise positions him strongly to lead DESNZ at a critical time for energy security, decarbonisation and infrastructure investment.
The appointment follows an external recruitment exercise chaired by the First Civil Service Commissioner, reflecting the role’s significance and the need for transparent, independent oversight.
Ed Miliband, Energy Secretary, added:
“Jonathan has spent his career driving for Britain’s energy security and is a deeply experienced, dedicated and imaginative public servant. As we continue to deliver our clean energy mission to bring down energy bills for families and take back control of our energy with clean homegrown power, I am delighted to welcome Jonathan to lead the department.
“I also want to thank Clive Maxwell for his excellent leadership as Interim Permanent Secretary over recent months. I have really valued his counsel and drive, and he has played a critical role in major successes for the department, from AR7 to the warm homes plan.”
DESNZ plays a central role in:
- Delivering the UK’s long‑term energy security strategy
- Supporting the transition to net zero
- Overseeing major investments in renewable energy, nuclear, grid resilience and energy efficiency
- Managing the consumer impacts of energy market change
Brearley’s appointment signals a continued focus on strong governance, evidence‑based policy, and consumer‑focused delivery.
With Brearley departing Ofgem, the regulator will soon set out the appointment process for its next CEO. Ofgem’s role remains pivotal as the UK continues reforms to electricity markets, grid modernisation and protection for energy consumers.
Brearley joins DESNZ at a time of significant national challenge and opportunity:
- Ensuring secure, affordable energy supply
- Accelerating renewable deployment and low‑carbon technologies
- Strengthening resilience against global energy shocks
- Supporting households and businesses through the transition to net zero
His appointment will be closely watched by sector leaders, investors, regulators and local government partners as the UK navigates a period of rapid change across its energy systems.
Image credit: iStock
