Formerly head of arrivals and departures at the London 2012 Olympics, Nickson will work to ensure that customers are aware of the smart meter roll-out and its benefits.
In addition to his role at British Gas, Nickson is on the board of the Central Delivery Body, which has been established by Energy UK on behalf of the larger energy suppliers. The body will manage consumer engagement around the smart meter roll-out from an industry perspective.
The appointment comes weeks after British Gas installs its millionth smart meter.
Nickson said: “Smart meters represent one of the biggest changes in our homes since central heating became a common fixture, so I am very pleased to be part of the team at such an important time for British Gas and our customers.
“Smart meters will put an end to estimated bills and provide information on energy use to our customers in near real time.”
Prior to his role at London 2012, Nickson was customer experience manager at terminal five and three for British Airways at Heathrow Airport, responsible for the movement of 30 million passengers a year.
Nickson added: “There’s still a long way to go and I’m looking forward to working with the wider energy industry to ensure all households and businesses are aware of the opportunity that smart meters present for our energy future.”