What we do
Aurora is an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), regulated by Ofgem. We own and operate last-mile electricity distribution networks across Great Britain.
We’ve got a focus on net-zero, big connections. Think data centres, bus depots, EV super-hubs, factories, battery storage, shopping centres, urban regeneration projects, and more. The bigger the better.
Put simply, we plug new networks into the electricity grid. Then your project plugs into our networks. Your projects, our networks.
As well as operating and maintaining the new electricity connection we pay you a capital contribution towards your project development costs when we adopt the completed network. This is known as an “Asset Value”.
We’re all about creating infrastructure that lasts. Something future generations can count on, designed with care and a focus on sustainability.
Meet the team
At Aurora we’ve built a team of individuals who are experts in their field, yet remain both hungry to learn and most importantly are passionate about delivering for our customers.
Our team thrives on inspiring one another to aim higher, all while building a supportive network that empowers everyone to succeed. We tap into the strength of this diversity, making sure every idea counts, every detail matters, and everyone contributes to our success.
Gregor Alexander
Gregor Alexander
Group Chair
Gregor has spent over three decades at SSE in key leadership roles, including more than 20 years as Finance Director. He brings a wealth of experience in sustainability practices having been instrumental in setting SSE’s carbon targets in alignment with the 2016 Paris Agreement. His extensive board-level experience spans SGN, Stagecoach, Neos Networks and SSEN Transmission.
Simon Reilly
Simon Reilly
Chief Executive Officer
Simon is an experienced commercial leader who is passionate about building high-performing teams to deliver value to customers and stakeholders.
Before founding Aurora in 2023, he spent 10 years in senior executive positions with private equity backed transport and energy businesses. Prior to that he spent 15 years in the corporate finance division of a Big Four accountancy firm.
Jamie McAinsh
Jamie McAinsh
Chief Commercial Officer
Jamie is Aurora’s Co-Founder and CCO.
He is an experienced leader with a commercial and operational background that combines significant asset management and transaction experience across utility infrastructure.
Before founding Aurora, Jamie built out a multi-utility operator, growing it into a market leader. He also set up and launched an independent water company and previously helped scale a PE-backed smart meter financing business ahead of a successful exit.
Jamie is a Chartered Engineer.
Jeremy Wright
Jeremy Wright
Chief Operating Officer
Jeremy is a highly accomplished Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of The Institution of Engineering and Technology. He brings extensive technical, operational and asset management expertise across all utility-regulated activities.
Before joining Aurora, Jeremy served as Technical Director for a US-based independent utility provider. He has also held the position of Head of Network Operations for one of the 14 licensed Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) in the UK.
Jeremy’s career reflects a deep commitment to engineering excellence and leadership in the utility sector.
Charlie Hesketh
Charlie Hesketh
Strategy & Investment Director
Charlie is a seasoned Strategy Director with extensive expertise in the development and financing of renewable and distributed energy projects. He played a pivotal role in establishing the renewable energy division for one of the UK’s leading Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). He has held strategic positions with a US technology firm specializing in distributed energy solutions for data centre applications.
With over a decade’s experience in crafting go-to-market strategies for renewable energy and high-energy-use sectors, Charlie is at the forefront of energy generation technology, driving the adoption of cutting-edge solutions across the industry.
Mark Sneddon
Mark Sneddon
Delivery Director
Mark is an experienced development and delivery leader who has successfully built out high performing teams that offer innovative solutions to the market.
He has a track record of delivering infrastructure projects with high performing client satisfaction, and has worked across regulated businesses for a number of years.
He previously led the build-out of an independent electrical network owner, following its entry to the UK market.
I Squared
Aurora is a portfolio company of I Squared Capital, an independent global infrastructure investment manager with over $40 billion in assets under management.
I Squared Capital, through investment vehicles it advises, has invested over $6 billion in the energy transition since its inception in 2012.
Environmental, Social and Governance
Aurora believes strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices are key to building resilient assets that deliver long-term value for our customers.
Here are our guiding principles:
Environment
- Seek to minimise and mitigate the environmental impact of our operations
- Actively assess climate change risks and opportunities
- Continuously improve the efficient use of natural resources
Social
- Prioritise the well-being and safety of employees
- Foster a positive workplace that values diversity and inclusion
- Maintain top-tier health and safety practices
- Support surrounding communities by considering their interests, safety and wellbeing
Governance
- Adhere to strong governance practices
- Uphold high ethical standards across all business activities
- Build strong stakeholder relationships through transparency and engagement
Be part of this
We’re growing fast, and we’re constantly on the hunt for good people to add to our team’s capabilities. We value entrepreneurial spirit but also emphasise collaboration, creating an environment where everyone’s input drives the success of the business.
If you like the sound of Aurora and would like to know more, sign up to hear first about vacancies.