Darren Elsom announced as IGEM President 2026-2027
The Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers (IGEM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Darren Elsom as IGEM President for the 2026-2027 term.
Darren brings more than 30 years of experience in the energy sector to the role, having started his career as an apprentice service engineer with British Gas Eastern in 1991 at the age of 16. Throughout his career, he has held a number of senior operational and strategic positions across the gas industry, building a reputation as a highly respected leader with a strong passion for energy security, skills development and the future of green gases.
Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer at SGN, Darren oversees operations, engineering, asset management and customer service across southern England, Scotland and the west of Northern Ireland. His leadership responsibilities span some of the UK’s most critical energy infrastructure, ensuring safe, reliable and affordable energy for millions of customers.
Prior to joining SGN, Darren held several senior roles at National Grid, including Head of Network Engineering & Strategy for the National Transmission System and Head of Network Maintenance across four gas distribution networks, delivering major maintenance and capital projects.
More recently, Darren served as Network Director for Cadent’s Eastern region, covering the East Midlands and East of England. Over the past several years, he has also led future energy development projects including HyNet and East Coast Hydrogen, alongside energy connections involving biomethane, power generation, industrial users and compressed natural gas (CNG) for transport.
As IGEM President, Darren’s theme for the year will be “Resilience Today, and for the Future”, reflecting his commitment to ensuring the long-term strength, adaptability and sustainability of the UK’s gas networks during a period of significant change for the energy sector.
During his Presidential Address at the InterContinental London Park Lane, Darren highlighted the vital role the gas industry continues to play in supporting customers and maintaining national resilience.
He said: “I've often thought that our industry is the quiet, unrecognised superhero. Every winter, our networks quietly keep the country running."
Speaking about the future of the industry, Darren emphasised the importance of balancing energy transition ambitions with affordability and security for customers.
He added: “Our role today is essential, our role tomorrow remains crucial.”
Darren also spoke passionately about the growing role of biomethane and green gases in the UK’s energy mix, noting that biomethane is already powering homes today with a homegrown, reliable source of energy. Throughout his presidency, Darren has pledged to be a strong voice for gas security, a passionate advocate for skills and training, particularly for young people entering the industry, and a champion for the role of gas in supporting the energy transition.
He said: “Our industry has evolved before, it can do so again, while staying firmly on the customer’s side, where we’ve always belonged."
During his term as President, Darren will represent IGEM at both internal and external events, championing the value of the institution and supporting collaboration across the industry as it navigates the opportunities and challenges ahead.
You can also see photos from Darren's Presidential Address held on 13 May 2026 at the InterContinental London Park Lane here.