Transmission system operator TenneT has appointed Frans Everts as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of the Executive Board of TenneT Holding and TenneT Netherlands. His appointment will take effect on 1 November 2026, following approval by the Dutch Ministry of Finance, the company’s shareholder.

Everts has been appointed for an initial four-year term and will succeed Manon van Beek, who will remain in the role until the transition is completed to ensure continuity and a smooth handover.

More than 37 years of experience in the energy sector

The incoming CEO joins from Shell, where he has built a career spanning more than 37 years across international energy, operational and commercial environments. He currently leads Shell’s operations in the Netherlands and brings extensive expertise in multiple aspects of the energy transition.

According to TenneT, his experience managing large-scale investment programmes, combined with his leadership of complex organisations, aligns closely with the challenges facing the company as Europe accelerates its energy transition.

Focus on grid expansion and the energy transition

Anja Mutsaers, Chair of TenneT’s Supervisory Board, said the company remains committed to delivering its strategic ambitions and contributing to a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the future.

She noted that the challenges ahead require strong strategic leadership, execution capabilities and close cooperation with partners across Europe, adding that Everts’ experience in the energy sector and his track record of leading large organisations in complex and rapidly changing environments make him well suited to guide TenneT through its next phase.

For his part, Everts said he was honoured by the appointment and highlighted TenneT’s role in the energy transition in both the Netherlands and Germany. He added that he looks forward to working with colleagues and stakeholders to build a future-proof and affordable energy system.

TenneT is currently implementing a major programme of grid investments aimed at expanding transmission infrastructure, facilitating the integration of renewable energy and addressing growing congestion challenges across its network.

Outgoing CEO Manon van Beek said the company faces the challenge of not only accelerating infrastructure expansion to tackle grid congestion but also making more efficient use of existing networks while maintaining a system that remains safe, affordable and reliable. She described Everts as an experienced and collaborative leader with deep sector knowledge and expressed confidence in the transition.