The move followed SSE’s decision to split its domestic business into two areas; domestic energy, and home and essential services.
Bednall will have responsibility for SSE’s gas and electricity customers in the UK and will report to the group managing director for retail, Will Morris.
The new managing director will join SSE in March, coming from the Intercontinental Hotel Group.
She also spent six years working with British Gas as the head of brand and marketing.
On her appointment, Bednall said: “This is a very exciting time to be re-joining the energy sector.
“My driving ambition will be to make a genuine difference for customers and our business.”
Group managing director for retail, Morris, said: “Jane will be an invaluable addition to the retail leadership team.
“She has a strong heritage in customer service centred business and a breadth of blue chip experience, including the energy sector.
“Our new team will be concentrating on giving our customers the best possible offering, in both energy and other essential home services.”