The Glasgow-based trade body has appointed a former EDF and Drax energy-policy executive to lead its lobbying push through the next phase of Scotland’s renewables build-out. Hepworth starts on 20 July and takes the role on 31 July, when Mack departs for SSEN Transmission.
Scottish Renewables, the trade body for Scotland’s renewable energy industry, has appointed Angela Hepworth as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 31 July 2026.
Hepworth joins from Drax, where she has served as Corporate Affairs Director and Commercial Director, leading work on low-carbon projects, according to the announcement.
She was previously Policy & Regulation Director at EDF UK, where she led work on the development of Sizewell C, and began her career at the Department for Trade & Industry working on security of energy supply and electricity market development.
“We are delighted to welcome Angela as our new CEO. Her proven track record in the energy sector, combined with her strategic insight into the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition, makes her the ideal new leader to guide Scottish Renewables,” said Susie Lind, Chair of Scottish Renewables.
Hepworth will join Scottish Renewables on 20 July and formally assume the CEO role on 31 July, when Claire Mack OBE steps down after nine years leading the organisation.
Mack, CEO since 2017, is moving to a new position at SSEN Transmission, the Scottish transmission network operator, per the release.
“I am honoured to be joining Scottish Renewables at such a transformative time for the energy sector. Scotland has already made remarkable progress in its renewable energy journey, but there is much more to be done to fully realise our potential,” Hepworth said in the announcement.
“Claire has worked tirelessly over the past nine years to champion for the sector in Scotland. Under her leadership, Scottish Renewables has grown in impact and influence. We are very grateful for the commitment she has shown to the organisation and the sector, and wish her well as she takes on an exciting new position at SSEN Transmission,” Lind added.
The appointment lands as Scottish Renewables’ members — spanning onshore and offshore wind, hydro, solar and storage developers — navigate grid-connection constraints, planning-reform delays and the transition to zonal electricity pricing under review by Ofgem and DESNZ.
Hepworth’s DTI, EDF and Drax background gives her direct experience of the Westminster and Whitehall levers that Scottish Renewables’ members increasingly need worked on their behalf, alongside the devolved planning and consenting agenda in Edinburgh.
