A Board of Non-Executive Directors, SECCo

The Challenge

In Spring 2026, Novo Executive Search was retained by The Smart Energy Code Company (SECCo) to support the appointment of a new cohort of independent Non-Executive Directors to the DCC2 Board. The assignment came at a pivotal moment for the organisation, as the industry prepared for significant change associated with the future of the Smart Meter Communication Licence (SMCL).

The Board required individuals who could provide strong governance, strategic oversight and specialist expertise across a range of disciplines, while helping steer the organisation through a period of transition and increasing regulatory and operational complexity.

Our Approach

Drawing on our extensive networks across the energy, utilities and infrastructure sectors, Novo conducted a comprehensive search and selection process focused on identifying exceptional board-level talent from both within and beyond the sector.

The brief called for a diverse blend of expertise capable of supporting DCC2’s future direction. We undertook a targeted market mapping exercise, engaging with senior leaders across multiple industries to ensure a broad and high-calibre candidate pool. Each candidate was assessed against both the technical requirements of the role and the wider governance, leadership and stakeholder-management capabilities required of a modern Non-Executive Director.

The Outcome

Following a rigorous recruitment process, Novo successfully delivered five high-calibre appointments to the DCC2 Board:

  • Jonathan Lydiard-Wilson
  • Catherine Colloms
  • Sarah Eccleston
  • David Flynn
  • George Pitt

Collectively, the new Non-Executive Directors brought significant expertise across:

  • Finance
  • Telecommunications
  • Digital Infrastructure
  • Cyber Security
  • Procurement
  • Corporate Governance

The appointments strengthened the Board’s capability at a crucial stage in DCC2’s evolution, providing the breadth of experience and strategic insight required to navigate industry change while maintaining effective governance and stakeholder confidence.

The Impact

This assignment further demonstrated Novo’s ability to identify and attract outstanding board-level talent within highly regulated and technically complex markets. By combining sector knowledge, extensive executive networks and a rigorous search methodology, we helped build a Board equipped to support DCC2 through a critical period of transformation.

As the energy and utilities sectors continue to evolve, Novo remains committed to helping organisations shape future-ready leadership teams and boards capable of delivering long-term success.

Looking to strengthen your Board or leadership team?

Novo Executive Search has a proven track record of delivering exceptional Non-Executive and Executive appointments across the energy, utilities and infrastructure sectors.

Contact George Woodward: email to discuss how we can support your organisation’s leadership requirements.

 

 

 

 

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Leadership Team

susannah mallaghan

Susannah Mallaghan

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Dale Perrett

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Jonathan Shepherd

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Jo Watkins

ryan mills

Ryan Mills

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Jon Hollier

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George Woodward

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Matthew Searle

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Susannah Mallaghan

Division Manager novoElan

Susannah leads the novoelan division. She has worked with Novo for over 15 years. Prior to Novo, Susannah enjoyed a successful career with the Royal Mail, MM Teleperformance and RAC.

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Dale Perrett

Founding Director

Dale is one of the Founding Directors of Novo Executive Search and Selection. He is part of the Novo leadership team that drives the business. He remains passionate about working...

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Jonathan Shepherd

Research Director

Jonathan is Research Director for Novo Executive Search and Selection. Overseeing all retained Executive Search assignments, Jonathan ensures that each assignment is effectively managed and delivered to client timescales. He...

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Jo Watkins

Director

Now a Director at Novo, Jo has spent over 14 very successful years with the business. Jo has extensive experience recruiting senior management and board-level professionals across a range of...

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Ryan Mills

Director

Ryan is a Director of Novo Executive Search and Selection, with extensive experience recruiting senior management and board level professionals across a multitude of sectors. His client base ranges from...

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Jon Hollier

Founding Director

Jon is a Founding Director of Novo Executive Search & Selection. Beyond establishing and developing Novo, his extensive experience covers a wide range of disciplines across commercial and the third...

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George Woodward

Director

George is an experienced director and key member of Novo Executive Search’s leadership team and is integral in driving forward its growth into the future. With a breadth of UK...

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Matthew Searle

Director

Matthew is a Director at Novo Executive Search specialising in helping clients identify and attract the best possible senior management and executive appointments. Matthew’s early career began with 10 years...

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Insights

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