The Solar Trade Association (STA) has started the recruitment process for a new CEO after Paul Barwell announced his decision to stand down to the STA Board earlier this summer. Renewables recruitment expert Igloo3 is leading the search for his successor.
Paul Barwell has been CEO of the STA since 2012. He is said to have overseen the transformation of the association, originally established in 1978, to become the voice of the solar industry and one able to support the industry’s rapid growth. Over 12GW of solar capacity has been deployed during this period, supplying 4% of UK electricity.
During Paul’s tenure, the STA says it has achieved a number of key wins for the solar sector, as well as providing national leadership on industry standards. This work has helped generate record levels of public support for the technology despite its incredible growth.
Paul Barwell said: “This was a hard decision. It has been a real privilege to support the growth of a unique and special technology that is so vital for a prosperous future. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some brilliant colleagues, members and partners, which has meant we punch well above our weight. But there is no doubt the solar industry has faced more challenges than it should, given a track record of exceptional achievement.
“It is time for a change for me personally but I won’t be going far. I am pursuing some commercial interests that are very much embedded in the solar sector and I hope to remain a part of the STA’s extraordinary network as a member in due course.”
Paul will stay on to support the STA while a new CEO is recruited.
Jonathan Selwyn, STA’s chair, said: “Everyone has seen the great contribution the STA, under Paul’s leadership, has made in the public realm to support the growth of solar in the UK. What they may not appreciate is the quality of Paul’s management and industry engagement behind the scenes which has attracted a membership that is characterised by high standards and which manages around a third of all the solar deployed across the UK today.”
The STA is seeking a replacement CEO with a proven background of achievement at director level, including in the commercial sector.
