Ofgem has appointed Tim Jarvis as its permanent chief executive following a competitive recruitment process, confirming the interim leader in the role he has held since March.
The appointment comes as the regulator faces continued pressure to protect households from energy costs while supporting investment and reform across the UK’s energy system.
Continuity and consumer protection
Ofgem chair Mark McAllister said Jarvis had shown “strong leadership, sound judgement and a deep commitment to Ofgem’s mission” during his interim tenure.
McAllister said the appointment would provide continuity while giving Ofgem a mandate to strengthen its impact for consumers and respond to a rapidly changing energy system. He added that the regulator’s priorities included protecting customers who are struggling and helping ensure reliable and affordable energy in the future.
Jarvis said his focus would be on supporting consumers immediately while helping to build the energy system of tomorrow. He said many households remained concerned about energy costs and the challenges they could face over the winter.
“Ofgem will continue working closely with government, suppliers, consumer organisations and other partners to protect consumers, support those most in need and ensure the market works as effectively as possible,” Jarvis said.
Investment and reform
Ofgem said Jarvis would also oversee work to create the conditions for investment, innovation and growth needed to deliver a more secure, affordable and sustainable energy system.
The regulator said the energy sector faced renewed uncertainty in global markets linked to the crisis in the Middle East. It added that the coming months would require action to protect consumers while preparing for the scale of change ahead.
Before becoming interim chief executive, Jarvis was Ofgem’s director general for markets. He has also held senior roles across government, regulation and public service.
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh welcomed the appointment and said she looked forward to working with Jarvis to create a fair and affordable energy market with consumers at its heart.