Iain Conn, the former chief executive of energy firm Centrica, has joined Blackstone as a senior advisor for energy and sustainability investing.

Conn, left Centrica in March last year, after serving the British Gas parent as group CEO from 2015-2020. 

He has over 34 years of executive experience in the energy sector, including 29 years with oil and gas company BP where he served in roles such as board director for 10 years and CEO Downstream from 2007-2014.

Over his career, Conn has advised governments on energy and climate policy, and from 2017-2020 he co-chaired the World Economic Forum System Initiative on the Future of Energy.

Blackstone said Conn’s appointment will help to further the company’s efforts of acquiring, building and financing renewable and energy efficiency projects.

Sean Klimczak, global head of Blackstone Infrastructure Partners, said Conn’s knowledge of the energy sector will be invaluable as “we invest in infrastructure that supports the energy transition toward a more sustainable, decarbonised future”.

Conn said Blackstone is already investing in the energy transition and demonstrating leadership in tackling climate change by committing to reduce carbon emissions by 15% across all new investments where the firm controls energy usage.

“I’m excited to see what the future holds for the firm and the Blackstone portfolio.”

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