Ann Robinson, a remarkable individual known for her career in the civil service, leadership roles in public bodies, and contributions to the charity sector, sadly passed away at the age of 82.
In the year 2000, she assumed the position of executive chair at Energywatch, also known as the Gas and Electricity Consumers Council. It was during her tenure there that she discovered a lifelong passion for energy and consumer policy, eventually transitioning to the role of director of consumer policy at the price comparison service, uSwitch, from 2005 to 2016.
Ann’s interest in fuel poverty led her to become a renowned advocate for energy consumers. She regularly participated in discussions on consumer issues through television and radio appearances. Her expertise and commentary on current energy affairs were sought after by publications such as The Guardian and various national newspapers.
In 2018, Ann was honored with a non-executive directorship on the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority, Ofgem’s governing body. She held this position until her retirement in 2020.
Born in Wigan, Lancashire, Ann was adopted as a baby by William and Winifred Flatley. After completing her education, she worked as a clerical assistant at the Royal Ordnance Factory in Chorley. It was during this time that she took the civil service internal exams and achieved promotion to executive officer. Despite lacking a degree or connections, this was an exceptional accomplishment. In 1969, she relocated to London to join the Department of Health and Social Security.
Ann swiftly ascended the ranks, ultimately reaching the position of director of policy and planning at the Benefits Agency. In 1993, she departed from this role to become the chief executive of the Spastics Society, where she spearheaded a modernization effort that resulted in a name change to Scope. Subsequently, in 1997, she served as the director general of the British Retail Consortium before transitioning to Energywatch.
Throughout her career, Ann dedicated her time to various causes. She chaired Victim Support London from 1997 to 2001 and served as a lay member of the General Medical Council from 2003 to 2012.
In the late 1960s, I had the privilege of sharing a flat with Ann in Earl’s Court when she first arrived in London. She had an extraordinary ability to transform setbacks into opportunities for exploring alternative paths that may have otherwise been overlooked. Her energy was infectious, and she possessed a genuine interest in art and helping others. This extended not only to her professional endeavors but also to those fortunate to call her a friend.
In 1961, Ann married Peter Robinson, who survives her.
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