Wood strengthens consulting leadership with appointment of experienced energy strategist Dr David Cole as Executive President

Wood strengthens consulting leadership with appointment of experienced energy strategist Dr David Cole as Executive President

(IN BRIEF) Wood has appointed Dr David Cole FREng as Executive President of its Consulting business, bringing in a highly experienced industry leader with more than 30 years of expertise across multiple sectors including energy, defence, aerospace, and petrochemicals. Previously serving as Director of Energy Strategy at Sizewell C and holding senior roles at EDF Nuclear Services and Atkins, Dr Cole is set to lead the company’s global consulting operations with a focus on improving strategic clarity, operational discipline, and long-term value delivery for clients. His appointment underscores Wood’s commitment to strengthening its consulting capabilities at the front end of complex energy and materials projects, where informed decision-making and investment readiness are critical. With strong technical credentials and leadership experience in net zero energy initiatives, Dr Cole aims to enhance performance while building on the business’s established culture and expertise.

(PRESS RELEASE) ABERDEEN, 23-Mar-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Wood has announced the appointment of Dr David Cole FREng as Executive President of its Consulting division, marking a significant addition to its senior leadership team.

Dr Cole joins the company from Sizewell C, where he most recently served as Director of Energy Strategy. Prior to this role, he held a number of senior leadership positions, including at EDF Nuclear Services and Atkins, where he led the Net Zero Energy business across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. His career spans more than three decades, with experience across defence, aerospace, petrochemicals, and the broader energy sector.

In his new role, Dr Cole will oversee Wood’s global Consulting operations, concentrating on sharpening strategic direction, enhancing operational performance, and delivering sustainable long-term value for clients operating within energy and materials markets.

Commenting on his appointment, Dr Cole highlighted the role of Wood’s Consulting business in addressing complex industry challenges. He noted its position at the early stages of major energy and materials projects, supporting clients in making informed decisions and developing viable, investment-ready initiatives. He emphasized his intention to bring greater clarity to the business’s value proposition, ensure disciplined execution, and strengthen overall performance while continuing to build on its established technical expertise and organizational culture.

Dr Cole is a Chartered Engineer and holds fellowships with both the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institute of Materials, Mining and Metallurgy.

SOURCE: John Wood Group PLC