Management shake-up at Scottish Gas owner Centrica

Two of the top bosses at Scottish Gas owner Centrica have stepped down, leaving their successors to deal with the volatility caused by the coronavirus crisis.

Charles Berry is also the chairman of Glasgow-based Weir Group. Picture: Robert Perry

Chief executive Iain Conn and chairman Charles Berry, who is also the chairman of Glasgow-based engineering group Weir, have both resigned from Centrica immediate effect.

Berry has been on medical leave since the beginning of February, while Conn had already said he would step down this year.

Finance director Chris O’Shea is set to step into Conn’s shoes until a permanent successor can be found, Centrica added.

Berry, who was told by doctors to reduce his workload, will hand over to long-time board member Scott Wheway.

“I’m acutely aware that I’m taking this role at a time when we need to navigate our way through the current volatility caused by the impact of coronavirus,” Wheway said. “Protecting our employees and customers is a priority for us, particularly those who are vulnerable.”

Conn will remain available until the group’s planned annual general meeting on 11 May, as anticipated, to support the handover but the day-to-day leadership of the company will pass to O’Shea.

Weir GRoup said: “Charles continues his leave of absence on health grounds from the board of Weir. We currently anticipate welcoming Charles back to Weir within the next few weeks and will provide an update as necessary.”

His responsibilities are being fulfilled by senior independent director Barbara Jeremiah.