Four senior figures from the energy industry have been awarded honorary degrees by the University of Strathclyde, in recognition of their role in transforming the energy landscape and advancing the UK’s net zero ambitions.
ScottishPower Chief Executive Officer Keith Anderson, non-executive Director of Ricardo and previous Managing Director of Aker Offshore Wind Sian Lloyd-Rees, Group Chief Executive of Centrica Chris O’Shea, and Chief Executive of UK Power Networks Basil Scarsella were conferred with honorary doctorates at a ceremony held in the University’s Barony Hall on Monday 25th August.
Outstanding leaders
Keith Anderson has overseen a transformation in renewable energy delivery, with all of ScottishPower’s electricity now sourced from renewables. A former leader of Iberdrola’s offshore operations and ScottishPower Renewables, he is spearheading a £24 billion investment programme to enhance the UK’s energy infrastructure. His advocacy for vulnerable consumers and emphasis on community benefit reflect Strathclyde’s commitment to inclusive growth and equitable access to energy.
Sian Lloyd-Rees is at the forefront of renewable energy innovation. A passionate advocate for the circular economy, she leads efforts to ensure offshore wind technologies contribute to a sustainable, low-carbon future. Aker’s partnership with Strathclyde has included pioneering work on wind turbine recycling, advancing shared goals aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Chris O’Shea has drawn on more than three decades in energy and engineering to steer Centrica through periods of profound challenge and change. Appointed CEO in 2020, he has championed inclusive employment and widened access to skilled roles. Centrica’s long-standing partnership with the British Gas Energy Trust, which provides support to customers in financial hardship, exemplifies his commitment to social responsibility – a principle closely shared by Strathclyde.
Inclusive progress
Basil Scarsella has led a remarkable career spanning continents and disciplines. Originally from Italy and raised in Australia, he was a professional footballer before holding senior roles in finance and energy, including as CEO of Northern Gas Networks. Under his leadership, UK Power Networks has become a sector leader in decarbonisation and innovation and has been named UK Utility of the Year three times. Its six-year inclusion in The Sunday Times Top 25 Best Big Companies to Work For reflects a strong alignment with Strathclyde’s people-oriented values.
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, who presided over the ceremony, said: “These honorary degrees celebrate outstanding leaders whose work supports sustainable, inclusive progress in the energy sector. Their achievements speak directly to our values and our role in shaping a fairer, greener world through research, education and partnership.”