A new chairman has been named for Sellafield Ltd.

Tony Fountain will take up the role on April 1 as part of new management arrangements which will see Sellafield Ltd become a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).

He will replace current chair Tony Price. 

In his 30-year career, Mr Fountain has held key roles in BP and more recently led Reliance Industries’ refining and marketing business in India. 

He also has a knowledge of the nuclear industry from his time as NDA chief executive from 2009 to 2011. 

Announcing his appointment, NDA chairman Stephen Henwood said: "The position of the Sellafield Ltd chair is a hugely important one, requiring someone of considerable experience in industry and first class leadership skills. 

"Having scoured the international market we are delighted to have secured Tony Fountain’s services. Tony will be a huge asset to Sellafield Ltd in overseeing its delivery of the NDA’s decommissioning mission at Sellafield, the most challenging across our estate. 

"I would like to thank Tony Price who in his role as MD and latterly as chair of Sellafield Ltd has brought a much-improved focus on delivery at the site.” 

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Fountain said: "Sellafield Ltd plays a crucial role in safely and securely managing the UK’s nuclear legacy. I am delighted to be asked to chair the organisation and help Paul Foster, his executive team and workforce to progress the decommissioning mission as effectively and efficiently as possible on behalf of the NDA. 

"From previous experience I know of the tremendous expertise and passion within Sellafield Ltd to make real progress. I am also fully aware of the significant role the organisation fulfills within its communities. I am looking forward to playing my part in what will be a pivotal period for the organisation and the site.” 

Sellafield Ltd managing director Paul Foster said: "In Tony Fountain, the NDA has found someone with the right skills, experience and attributes to chair an organisation with a mission as complex as ours. I am looking forward to working closely with Tony as we drive progress in evolving the business.” 

Under the new NDA owner/SL subsidiary arrangements, effective from April 1, the NDA is responsible for selecting the chair of the board of Sellafield Ltd. The appointment will run for three years, renewable by mutual agreement. The chair will lead the board of non-executive and executive directors in driving safe and secure progress and value for money in the delivery of the mission at Sellafield.