The Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), Aurora, has continued to invest in the strength and depth of its delivery function with the appointment of several highly experienced professionals across design, pre-construction, and project management.
Each new hire brings deep sector knowledge spanning: IDNOs, Independent Connection Providers (ICPs), electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, renewables and major network operations – reinforcing Aurora’s commitment to safe, compliant and customer-focused project delivery as the business continues to scale.
Together, these appointments reflect a delivery team built not only for growth, but for the increasingly complex energy projects shaping the UK’s transition to net zero.
Driving EV and LV delivery at scale
With over 25 years of hands-on experience in the utilities sector and a passion for EV infrastructure, Rachel Lewis joins Aurora as EV/LV Pre-Construction Manager, leading delivery across EV and LV (Low Voltage) projects nationwide.
During her decades-long career, she has acquired a wealth of experience supporting local authorities transition to low-carbon transport networks, including Transport for Wales, Islington Council and Oxford Council.
“Aurora is a forward-thinking company with a clear vision for growth and innovation. The opportunity to work closely with the UK’s leading Charge Point Operators (CPOs), and to help shape the future of EV infrastructure across the country made this an exciting next step for me.”
Rachel’s role ensures that designs, legal agreements, Meter Point Administration Numbers (MPANs) and delivery milestones are aligned to meet customer energisation timescales – a critical capability as EV demand accelerates.
“Aurora’s experienced delivery teams and in-house legal capability remove delays and give our customers confidence,” she added. “That proactive approach makes a real difference in ensuring our projects are a success.”
Enhancing on-site coordination and asset adoption
Joining Aurora’s delivery function with a background spanning construction, renewables and EV infrastructure, Michael Wagner has been appointed Delivery Compliance Manager. He brings valuable experience working across ICPs, DNOs and IDNOs, which includes working for large organisations such as Shell and BP Pulse.
“Aurora stands out because of its highly skilled and knowledgeable people, as well as the culture,” Michael commented. “There’s vast experience across the business, and everyone genuinely wants to do a great job for clients.”
Michael’s role covers site audits, energisation coordination, ICP engagement and asset handover – ensuring projects move smoothly from construction through to adoption.
“Aurora is playing an important role in reshaping the UK energy system to ensure it is fit for a sustainable future. IDNOs introduce competition, innovation and efficiency into what was once a monopoly – benefiting customers in terms of cost, speed and long-term network design.”
Building technical excellence into design and delivery
Bolstering Aurora’s technical capabilities, Ragithan Varatharajah has joined the team as a Design Connection Engineer. He brings a strong technical background in electrical engineering and hands-on experience across the full project lifecycle – from tender and detailed design through to construction delivery.
“What excites me is how quickly the sector is evolving – from smart grids and digitalisation to decarbonisation and AI-driven solutions,” he said. “At Aurora, the opportunity to help shape design standards while working across national, critical infrastructure such as data centres, renewables, and primary substations was a huge draw.”
Ragithan’s role focuses on reviewing ICP design submissions for safety, compliance and alignment with Aurora’s G81 standards, while also supporting customers with technical queries and contributing to the development of Aurora’s design library.
“Aurora’s flexible design approach, combined with first-class customer service, genuinely sets us apart as an IDNO,” he added.
Strengthening governance, process and performance
Aurora has also welcomed Steve Gray as Project Management Office (PMO) Lead, bringing decades of utilities experience and a passion for embedding robust processes that enable teams to perform at their best. He has held senior roles with major energy companies such as Wales & West Utilities (WWU).
“Aurora feels different – it’s new, vibrant and progressive. The culture here is collaborative and the work rewarding.” Steve explained. “My role is about ensuring projects move in the right direction, improving processes, and giving our teams the structure they need to succeed.”
Steve’s remit includes performance reporting, process development and cross-team coordination – helping Aurora scale without losing agility.
“As an IDNO, Aurora is disrupting a traditional and often staid approach to grid connections and network design. There’s a real focus on partnerships and shared success here, benefiting not only the Aurora team but our customer partners,” he added.
A delivery team built for the future
Commenting on the team growth, Mark Sneddon, Delivery Director at Aurora, said:
“These appointments represent a significant investment in the capability and resilience of Aurora’s industry-leading delivery team. Each individual brings specialist expertise, but more importantly, they share Aurora’s values – flexibility, collaboration, and a genuine customer focus. As project complexity increases across EV infrastructure, data centres and renewables, building a strong, experienced delivery function is essential. I’m incredibly proud of the team we’re continuing to grow here at Aurora.”
With Aurora’s expanding delivery team, the IDNO is well positioned to support customers through an increasingly dynamic energy landscape – delivering safe, compliant and future-ready infrastructure across the UK.
To discuss how we can accelerate your project’s network design and secure future-proof connections, contact us at: info@aurora-utilities.co.uk
