Lesley Rudd | CEO | Electrical Safety First

Lesley Rudd’s journey to becoming CEO of Electrical Safety First is one of purpose, resilience, and commitment to public safety. Having worked extensively in the oil and gas industry, she witnessed firsthand how critical safety was to the sector. Tragedies like fatal helicopter crashes and catastrophic oil spills shaped her understanding of risk management, highlighting the industry’s dedication to learning from mistakes and prioritizing safety.

Yet, this experience also made her acutely aware of the environmental impact of fossil fuels, sparking a deep commitment to sustainability. This conviction led her to transition to the Sustainable Energy Association, where she became a vocal advocate for climate change policies. When the opportunity to lead Electrical Safety First arose, it was a natural fit—an organization rooted in protecting people while addressing safety and sustainability challenges in an evolving world.

For Lesley, the proudest aspect of her tenure at Electrical Safety First isn’t just the high-profile campaigns—it’s seeing her team grow. Witnessing staff members develop, thrive, and contribute to meaningful change is among her greatest rewards.

Beyond leadership, Lesley draws inspiration from her mother—a feminist, hardworking woman who instilled a deep appreciation for democracy and the right to vote. Her mother’s commitment to democracy shaped Lesley’s lifelong interest in politics, reinforcing her belief that advocacy can spark real change.

Leadership and Advocacy

Lesley’s passion for safety and sustainability fuels her leadership at Electrical Safety First. She acknowledges the privilege of working alongside individuals who have lost loved ones to electrical fires and wants to ensure no one else suffers such tragedies. For aspiring leaders interested in consumer protection, Lesley’s advice is simple: find a mission you care about and dedicate yourself wholeheartedly.

Leadership, she believes, extends beyond strategy and decision-making; it’s about developing people and fostering inclusivity. She champions diversity in leadership, recognizing the importance of representation—whether women, individuals from working-class backgrounds, or ethnic minorities. Rudd hopes her own career inspires others, demonstrating that anyone, regardless of their background or identitycan become a CEO.

Championing Electrical Safety in a Net-Zero Future

Electrical Safety First is committed to consumer protection, tackling emerging dangers associated with the rise of electricity-dependent technologies. As society moves toward net-zero goals, electrification is reshaping industries—from heating systems to transport. Yet, progress brings challenges.

One major concern is the increasing prevalence of electrical products sold via online marketplaces, many of which bypass traditional safety regulations. Unlike high street retailers, these platforms lack accountability, allowing hazardous goods to reach consumers unchecked. Electrical Safety First is at the forefront, lobbying for stricter regulations to ensure only safe products are sold online.

Additionally, the transition to cleaner energy solutions necessitates well-trained professionals to implement new infrastructure. Lesley recognizes that advancing electrical safety means investing in skilled electricians who can install solar panels, energy storage systems, and EV charging stations safely. Encouraging consumers to hire registered and competent electricians remains a key pillar of Electrical Safety First’s advocacy.

The Battery Breakdown Campaign: Fighting Dangerous E-Bike Fires

Among Electrical Safety First’s most impactful initiatives is the Battery Breakdown Campaign, a response to the alarming rise in fires caused by faulty e-bikes and e-scooter batteries which have resulted indestruction of property, injuries and devasting deaths across the UK. In London alone, incidents occur every two days.

The campaign aims to close regulatory gaps that allow substandard batteries and conversion kits to enter UK homes, endangering lives. Electrical Safety First has pushed for stricter safety standards for e-bike chargers, third-party certification for the lithion-ion batteries they use , and enhanced regulations for online marketplaces.

With backing from 100 national organizations and 900 local councils, the campaign is shaping the UK government’s Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, seeking  robust consumer protection laws. For Lesley, this initiative exemplifies the organization’s mission—turning technical expertise into tangible safety improvements for the public.

Collaborating to Drive Change

Electrical Safety First’s success is deeply rooted in collaboration. Whether engaging with government bodies, regulators, or industry groups, the organization thrives on partnerships.This approach has led to major legislative wins, including mandatory electrical safety checks in the private rental sector, safeguarding over 5 million households across the UK.

In Scotland, Electrical Safety First worked to embed electrical safety provisions into circular economy legislation, ensuring that sustainability does not compromise safety.

Shaping the Safety Standards of Tomorrow

Under Lesley’s leadership, Electrical Safety First is not just responding to existing threats—it’s shaping future standards to keep consumers safe. One significant area of focus is smart home technology, which is becoming increasingly common in households. While devices like smart plugs, connected appliances, and AI-powered energy systems offer convenience, they also introduce complex safety challenges.

Lesley emphasizes the importance of  ensuringsmart devices meet appropriate safety standards, particularly as their integration into the home becomes more complex. She notes that greater collaboration across industry and with regulators will be key to addressing emerging risks and shaping a safe, connected future as new products are developed and come to market. .

Additionally, the organization’s influenceextends beyond the UK, as electrical safety issues are global. Lesley is keen to exchange knowledge with international safety bodies, ensuring lessons learned in the UK can contribute to broader global regulations. Electrical Safety First is already engaging with stakeholders across Europe, North America, and Asia to align safety efforts internationally.

Driving Change with a Human-Centric Approach

Despite the technical nature of electrical safety, Lesley never loses sight of the human impact of her work. She has met families affected by electrical fires—people who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods due to unsafe products. For her, these encounters reinforce the importance of advocacy and regulatory change.

One of her biggest motivators is making sure safety regulations aren’t just policies on paper but real protections that save lives. Electrical Safety First remains dedicated to storytelling—sharing the experiences of victims, giving a voice to those affected, and using these narratives to push for tangible legislative action.

A Legacy of Protection and Progress

Lesley’s tenure at Electrical Safety First reflects a deep commitment to safety and a forward-thinking approach to advocacy. By focusing on education, regulation, collaboration, and inclusion, she continues to drive meaningful change, ensuring electrical safety remains a priority in an increasingly electrified world.

With the organization’s expanding influence, Electrical Safety First is poised to lead conversations that will shape the future of electrical safety regulations —ensuring every household , and community stays protected.

As technology rapidly evolves, Lesley understands that electrical safety must keep pace. She has repeatedly emphasized that safety standards, regulations, and enforcement mechanisms must evolve alongside emerging technologies like e-bikes, smart home devices, and energy storage systems. If safety regulations fail to adapt, consumers will be exposed to greater risks—something Electrical Safety First is determined to prevent.

Beyond product safety, Lesley believes that consumer education is key. Electrical Safety First has been ramping up efforts to provide clear guidance to the public about risks associated with new technologies. This includes awareness campaigns, digital safety resources, and public initiatives aimed at teaching people how to identify and avoid electrical hazards.

A Legacy of Impact

Lesley’s leadership at Electrical Safety First embodies a deep commitment to protecting lives, advocating for consumer rights, and shaping a safer, sustainable future. Through initiatives like the Battery Breakdown Campaign, legislative victories, and industry collaboration, her work ensures that electrical safety remains a top priority in an electrified world.

With a career spanning energy, sustainability, and consumer protection, Lesley’s influence extends far beyond the boardroom—she’s shaping policies, transforming industries, and inspiring future leaders to challenge norms and create lasting change.