Young Gun Stephen Fitzpatrick steps down as OVO Energy managing director

OVO Energy founder Stephen Fitzpatrick, a 2010 Young Gun, has taken on a new role as CEO and appointed Jason Sharpe, former customer services director, as managing director in a strategic move to grow the business.

Sharpe, who joined the energy supplier in September 2013, will now be tasked with “expanding and diversifying” the company having already seen it double in size to 550 employees across its London and Bristol offices during his time there.

The new appointment is accompanied by a move by the company’s head of customer services, Melissa Gardner, to managing director of OVO In Home Technology.

Launched in 2009 and featured in the Startups 100 2010, Bristol-based OVO Energy says it is one of the leading independent suppliers of gas and electricity in the UK retail market with over 348,000 customers.

It also boasts strong employment figures, having created over 500 jobs since it entered the market with recruitment underway to take this number to 600.

Fitzpatrick commented: “I can think of no better person to lead OVO Energy as we enter this next phase of expansion and innovation.

 “OVO was founded as a business that always puts the customer first and Sharpe has demonstrated incredible leadership skills and business vision, whilst keeping the customer at the heart of everything we do. He has the ability to galvanise staff with the OVO vision and I believe Sharpe is the best person for the job as we enter this exciting period of transformation.”

New OVO Energy managing director, Sharpe, added:

“I’m proud to have been chosen to leading such as dynamic business and look forward to guiding the company as it transforms, innovates and pushes boundaries, while maintaining our entrepreneurial spirit.”