Ascendant Group Limited, the parent company of Belco, has appointed Sean Durfy to succeed Walter Higgins who will be retiring as president and CEO.

Mr Durfy will join Ascendant on September 12, having most recently served as CEO of Northland Power Inc, an independent power producer and developer that builds, owns and operates facilities in Canada, Europe and other jurisdictions. Previously, Mr Durfy was CEO of Canadian airline WestJet.

In a statement, Ascendant said Mr Durfy brings with him “a track record of innovative business strategy and leadership focused on developing business growth and corporate culture.

“In addition to his position at Northland Power Inc, Mr Durfy’s experience in the electricity sector includes having served as president and chief operating officer of ENMAX Energy Corporation, an electricity and natural gas company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta and director energy marketing at TransAlta Energy Marketing Corporation, also in Calgary”.

Peter Durhager, chairman of the Ascendant Group board of directors said: “In anticipation of Walt’s retirement and as part of a planned succession process, the board conducted an extensive local and international talent search and is excited to welcome a proven leader of Sean’s calibre and experience to succeed Walt.

“Since June 2012, Ascendant Group has benefited from Walt’s great depth of knowledge and experience in the electricity and energy businesses. We very much appreciate his contribution and wish him well in retirement.”

Mr Durfy said: “I am looking forward to moving to Bermuda with my family and being part of the Ascendant Group and the wider Bermuda community.

“This is a particularly interesting time as I will be joining Ascendant Group as Bermuda is moving through a transformative period in the energy industry.”

Mr Higgins will remain available as an advisory resource to Mr Durfy and the board during a transition period.