People swaps

Buchanan appointed Ofgem chief executive UK energy regulator the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has appointed Alistair Buchanan as chief executive. Previously head of European utilities research at Dutch bank ABN Amro, Buchanan (pictured) takes up his new post on October 1, the same day as the new chairman, John Mogg. Buchanan replaces Callum McCarthy, who is now chairman of UK financial regulator the Financial Services Authority (see EPRM May 2003, page 6). McCarthy was previously Ofgem chairman and CEO, but his role has been split into two. Buchanan says: “Ofgem has a strong reputation as an independent effective regulator which puts customers’ interests first. I am looking forward to working with Sir John, the Ofgem authority and staff to build on this reputation.”

• The Bonneville Power Administration, based in Portland, Oregon, has appointedEric Larson as its first chief risk officer. He previously served as a seniorexecutive in risk management, strategic planning and trading positions at energyfirm Entergy Corp in Texas and Louisiana. The BPA’s creation of the CROposition indicates it has recognised the growing importance of setting policiesto reflect