A new Lead Non-Executive Board Member, Ravi Gurumurthy, and a Non-Executive Board Member, Sue Ferns, have been appointed at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). 

The new board members will provide independent advice, support and challenge on the department’s work, as it drives forward its mission for clean power. They bring a range of experience across the public and private sectors, alongside a wealth of knowledge on ensuring a prosperous net zero bringing new investment and thousands of jobs. 

Ravi Gurumurthy is the Chief Executive of Nesta, the UK’s innovation foundation, which designs, tests and scale solutions to society’s biggest challenges from sustainability to health. Ravi has had an extensive career in innovation and government, including leading on the world’s first legally binding climate legislation. 

Sue Ferns is Senior Deputy General Secretary at Prospect, responsible for the union’s work across the energy, science, climate and environment sectors. Sue is also a member of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Executive Committee, where she leads the General Council on energy, environment and sustainability. She also represents the TUC on the Net Zero Council, a partnership between government, business and civil society which supports delivery of the clean energy superpower mission. 

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

Ravi and Sue are two of the foremost figures in the clean energy sector and their extensive knowledge and experience will be an invaluable asset to the department as we deliver our mission as part of the Plan for Change, bringing energy security, lower bills and good jobs for the nation.

Ravi Gurumurthy said: 

I’m delighted to join DESNZ at a critical time for the delivery of its mission.  We are seeing huge innovation in our energy system, with new technologies and business models emerging. In the coming weeks, I look forward to working with colleagues across the department to reduce bills, improve energy security, and support economic growth as we make the transition to net zero.

Sue Ferns said: 

Clean power will bring thousands of good, long-term jobs, for a diverse and skilled workforce, so I am pleased to be able to join DESNZ at this crucial time to support the delivery of its mission.

Ravi and Sue have been appointed for 3 years, from 1 May 2025. They join existing Non-Executive Board Member Vikas Shah.