Electricity North West has announced that its chief executive is to retire.
Peter Emery is to step down from the role he has held since 2016 when a successor has been appointed.
The company said it hoped the process would be completed by the end of the year.
READ MORE: TalkTalk agrees to acquire 200-strong network provider
Prior to joining Electricity North West, Mr Emery had been group operations director at Drax Group.
Before that, he had worked at ExxonMobil for almost 20 years.
In a statement, Electricity North West said: "His extensive background and industrial experience has enabled Electricity North West to deliver on the commitments for its customers set out in its business plan and help it to continue to be one of the top performing electricity distribution network operators in Great Britain.
"During Pete’s tenure, he has provided valuable leadership to the senior executive and wider leadership teams. The company has made many notable strategic achievements which are reflected in its current performance.
Most Read
"He leaves an exceptionally talented team in place and the business in an excellent position for its continued growth.
"Pete has significantly improved customer service and the operational performance of the business, whilst reducing the cost to serve.
"The board thanks Pete for his outstanding leadership of the company, and for his extraordinary contribution during a period of significant evolution in this industry.
"The board also appreciates Pete’s commitment to facilitate a smooth transition to new leadership fully equipped to lead the company forward in the transition to net zero and to ensure continuity in our service to our valued customers.
"Pete has made this decision for personal reasons and will remain with the company until a replacement CEO is appointed.
"The search for the new CEO is underway with the aim to conclude that process by the end of 2022. Pete’s passion and commitment to the company will be sincerely missed."
Chairman Alistair Buchanan added: "Pete has contributed immensely to the success of the organisation over the past six years.
Don’t miss
"He has led the business into developing a comprehensive business plan for 2023-28 that will help the North West meet its target of achieving net zero. His leadership will be greatly missed."
Sion Jones, chief operating officer at Equitix, one of Electricity North West’s shareholders, said: "On behalf of the board, I wish to express my appreciation of Pete and his contribution to the company."