The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) is pleased to welcome Mike Finnerty, its new Chief Executive and Chief Nuclear Inspector (CE/CNI), who takes up his post today (1 July).
Mike brings nearly 40 years of experience in the nuclear industry, spanning a wide range of organisations. He joins ONR from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), where he has been Special Assistant to the IAEA Director General, offering technical and strategic advice on nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.
Before this, Mike spent 21 years at ONR, starting as a specialist criticality inspector and ultimately rising to Deputy Chief Inspector.
Mike said: “I am delighted and honoured to return to ONR as the new Chief Executive and Chief Nuclear Inspector.
“My time at the IAEA provided valuable global perspectives on nuclear regulation and the future of the industry. This experience has sharpened my vision for ONR and reinforced my belief in the critical importance of our work.
“Nuclear safety and protecting workers and the public will always be our priority, but ONR is committed to regulating to support cost-effective, efficient nuclear operations and technological advancements.
“I will strive to ensure we excel as a modern and agile regulator, confident we have the people, skills, and knowledge to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
As CE/CNI, Mike becomes an executive member of the ONR Board and acts as Regulatory Head, providing independent expert advice on nuclear safety, security, and safeguards to the Board, Ministers, and Parliament.