Our leadership team all have a strong background in the services industry. At Business Stream, they work together to ensure we provide all our customers with the best and most cost-effective service and support.

Ronnie Mercer, chairman

Ronnie Mercer was appointed to our board in 2006 as chairman. He is also chairman of Scottish Water.

Ronnie was previously executive vice president for operations at Scottish Power and, before that, managing director of Southern Water. Before 1994 he worked in many positions in British Steel.

His extensive experience and knowledge of the retail and utility industries is a key strength for us.

Mark Powles, Chief executive

Mark Powles joined us in March 2007.

He brings relevant senior management experience operating in highly regulated, competitive retail service markets with companies such as Sealink Stena Line, National Express Group and AEGON UK.

His focus is to create a strong, sustainable brand where the customer is at the heart of all activities and all customers are retained on merit by the strength of the products, services and value for money we provide.

Johanna Dow, financial director

Jo Dow joined our board in 2007 from her former position as financial controller.

She was group finance manager with Scottish Water from 2001, and in previous positions at Scottish and Southern Energy was closely involved in the opening of the electricity market to retail competition.

Jo’s early career was as a chartered accountant in private practice. She combines experience of operating in a commercial environment and in the water industry, with strong financial acumen.

Ronald Hewitt, non-executive director

Ron is currently chief executive of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, and has previously run his own property company.

From 1996 to 2002, he was managing director of two Kwik Fit companies, and CEO for Vibroplant 1994-1996. Before this he held various senior positions in the RAC.

Ron is a customer service champion, winning major industry awards for customer satisfaction while at Kwik Fit.

Andrew Taylor, non-executive director

Andrew is currently chief executive officer of Intec Telecom Systems PLC, a global telecom solutions provider. Before this he was managing director for Lucent Technologies.

Between 1996 and 2004 he served in various senior roles for BT and O2, including vice president of business markets for O2 Germany. He was senior account manager for National Provident Institution in the early 90s.

Andrew has extensive operational and board management experience, having led and managed businesses through market growth, prosperity and organisational change.