The East of England's top energy figurehead is set to quit - after a tough few years for the industry.

East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) executive chairman Martin Dronfield said he was confident he was leaving the not-for-profit trade body in "a positive position, with a resilient team and a clear direction".  

He is credited with steering EEEGR back onto a solid financial course, injecting new life into its board and its leadership team, after recruiting "a new and highly energetic team".

But he has faced a challenging tenure - including in 2018 when the Beast from the East caused the last-minute cancellation of EEEGR's flagship conference in 2018.

It was also hit hard by the pandemic, which led to a fall in membership and sponsorship.

But the industry stalwart of 41 years helped deliver one of its most successful Southern North Sea (SNS) conferences to date in 2022 with revitalised layouts and stands and a new look.

"It’s been a challenging few years for the energy sector, and it’s a challenge that’s been keenly felt in the East of England region," he admitted.

"Our members have felt the pressure and, in turn, so have we at EEEGR.

"But we have weathered the storm, and I’m confident EEEGR is now in a positive position, with a resilient team and a clear direction.

"Now is the time for me to take a step back and allow that team to champion our industry and supply chain on a national scale and beyond."

Internal promotions in the team include of Rob Bush who was made general manager. The group has also welcomed specialist Sophie Skipp as head of energy skills, Karim Massaad as business relationship manager and Karen Freeman as Energy Sector Councils (ESCs) project manager.

The clusters include East Wind - the region’s offshore wind cluster, the Marine, Science, and Technology Council, Hydrogen East and the SNS Gas Transition sector council. 

Four other ESCs on the radar include Onshore Renewables, Nuclear, and Net Zero & Energy Integration.

Aquaterra Renewables Director and EEEGR board member Anne Haase said he had guided EEEGR through some of its most challenging times.

"His strategic vision, network and ability to create trust and enthusiasm has ensured that the organisation continues to have relevance to the wider business community and energy sector," she said.

"He’s helped set a strong foundation and direction for EEEGR and we are now looking for someone to take that baton and keep its momentum going."

A new executive chairman will be elected by the EEEGR board in the coming months.