The Chief Executive of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, Steve Foxley, is to stand down from his position with immediate effect, due to personal reasons.

Steve joined ORE Catapult in January 2025 and in that time has shaped the organisation’s strategic direction, strengthened important relationships across industry, government and innovative companies, and played an important role to ensure future growth and impact for the Catapult.

Cristina Garcia-Duffy, currently ORE Catapult’s Director of Research and Engineering, has been named as Acting CEO, while a recruitment process takes place for a permanent replacement.

Ronnie Bonnar, chairman of ORE Catapult, said:

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to sincerely thank Steve for his leadership, commitment and valuable contribution to ORE Catapult. While we are naturally disappointed that Steve has had to step away from his role, we fully understand and respect his decision to support his family at this time.

“The Board remains fully committed to ORE Catapult’s long-term mission and ambitions -innovating for a world with abundant, affordable and clean energy. ORE Catapult will continue to provide a breadth of valued support for the offshore renewables sector, including technology innovation, transformative research and delivering growth in line with the Government’s Clean Power ambitions.”

“We are delighted to have Cristina Garcia-Duffy providing strong leadership as Acting CEO, supported by an experienced Executive Team and Board, and a wonderful team of staff.”

Steve Foxley said:

“After a great deal of reflection, I have decided that the right decision for me is to step away from my role as Chief Executive Officer of ORE Catapult and focus my time and attention on my family.

“It has been a privilege to lead ORE Catapult and to work alongside such dedicated colleagues, partners and stakeholders who are committed to transforming the future of offshore renewable energy. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for the organisation.”

Day to day operations of the organisation remain unaffected and will carry on as normal. There will be no further comment or communications following this announcement at this time.