Hampshire’s InstaVolt appoints new CCO

InstaVolt, the Basingstoke firm behind one of Europe’s largest rapid EV charging networks, has appointed Simon Smith as CCO.

Simon brings more than 20 years’ experience in senior leadership roles, including most recently with eEnergy Group, where he headed up the energy efficiency division.

Between 2021 and 2023 he tripled the company’s sales to £26 million through the introduction of new energy as a service (EAAS) products to the market – solar and battery systems, workplace EV charging stations and energy analytics solutions.

Simon has also served as group sales and marketing director at Yu Energy plc, where he helped to double turnover in the space of two years. Of his latest appointment, Simon said: “InstaVolt is on a remarkable journey and my role is to accelerate the growth not only in the UK but, with my international experience, across Europe and beyond.

“I’ve long been an admirer of InstaVolt. The first public charger I used when I bought my first EV three years ago was InstaVolt at McDonalds in Milton Keynes – so I’m thrilled to be here, building the brand and taking the business to the next level.

“I’m passionate about encouraging the electric transition and the drive to net zero, while building intrinsic value for the business.”

Simon joins InstaVolt as the company plans to install 11,000 ultra rapid chargers across the UK and Ireland, as well as another 5,000 in Spain and Portugal, and more than 300 in Iceland.

CEO Adrian Keen added: “We’re delighted to have attracted someone of Simon’s calibre and he will be an excellent addition to the senior management team.

“Simon has outstanding credentials in both the B2B and B2C space and his track record of delivering high growth for companies speaks for itself.

“This is a pivotal moment for the company as we forge ahead in the UK, build on our success in Iceland and grow the business in Ireland, Spain and Portugal.”

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