Thursday 21 March 2024

National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is pleased to announce that Ian Funnell has been reappointed by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) as NNL’s Chair for a second term, when his current term comes to an end in January 2025.   

Ian was appointed to NNL as Chair in January 2022, following seven years as the CEO of ABB Ltd and Hitachi Energy Ltd in the UK and Ireland.

Professor Paul Howarth, Chief Executive Officer at NNL, said:

“We are very pleased that Ian has been reappointed as Chair by DESNZ and lead this exciting period of growth for NNL. With the recent announcement of the nuclear roadmap and further investment into the nuclear sector from UK government, Ian’s experience will be invaluable in helping NNL to fulfil its purpose.  

His long and successful career in innovative companies and sectors, and demonstrably strong commitment to STEM, sustainability and diversity and inclusion, are a pivotal asset as we continue to build NNL’s capabilities and deliver on our mission”.

On his reappointment, Ian Funnell, said:

“I am delighted to serve a second term on the Board of NNL at such an important time. As nuclear enjoys a renaissance, NNL’s mission to harness the potential of nuclear science to benefit society is more important than ever.  

“With a strong strategy and NNL’s great capability, prioritising resources to achieve shareholder objectives whilst ensuring the next generation of expertise, remains key. I very much look forward to continuing to work with Paul and the wider Board in this next phase of the laboratory’s development.” 

Ian has extensive experience in a non-executive capacity, and in addition to his role with NNL is currently Chair of the NG Bailey Group, Chair of the Energy Futures Laboratory at Imperial College London, and advisor to the President of Hitachi Europe.

He is also an Ambassador of the Women’s Leaders Association. He is a Chartered Engineer, a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Ian’s second term as Chair begins on 26 January 2025 and runs to 25 January 2028.

More information on NNL Board members can be found here.