The UK Treasury last night announced the new positions on the Court of the Bank of England, which is responsible for managing the affairs of the bank rather than formulating policy.
Thompson joins at the same time as TalkTalk Telecom Group chief executive Dido Harding, and Experian chief executive Don Roberts.
“All three are highly qualified and experienced people who will strengthen and diversify the Bank’s board,” said Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne.
Prior to joining Drax in 2005 Thompson was head of European business at InterGen, following roles at CDC, the National Development Bank of Botswana, and American Express.
The new role with the Bank of England will begin in August, the Treasury said.