BT Group has announced that its chief financial officer (CFO), Simon Lowth, will retire from the business following nine years in the role.

The telecoms giant also confirmed it has appointed Patricia Cobian as Lowth’s replacement, following a “comprehensive” global search.

Cobian is currently CFO at Virgin Media O2 and will join the BT board and its executive committee in the summer of 2026, with Lowth to retire following a managed handover.

BT said it would announce the date of Cobian’s appointment in due course.

Chief executive at BT, Allison Kirkby, commented: “I am thrilled that Patricia is going to be joining BT next year. Her leadership, deep industry experience and knowledge will be invaluable, as we continue our once-in-a-generation upgrade of the UK’s digital infrastructure and accelerate BT’s modernisation.

“As he prepares for retirement, I’d like to thank Simon for his outstanding contribution to BT over so many years – and on a more personal note, for his wise counsel and partnership to me. His leadership has played a major part in our strategy and transformation to date, as we become a better BT for our customers, our colleagues, the country and our owners."

Chairman, Adam Crozier, said: “Patricia is a highly experienced, transformative telco leader, and she will be an excellent addition to the BT board and the business. On behalf of all of us here, I also want to join Allison in offering heartfelt thanks to Simon for his unwavering commitment over the last nine years. His impact has been profound, and we wish him all the best for his upcoming retirement.”

Cobian added: “I am excited to join BT at such a critical point in the company’s transformation, and I look forward to working with Allison, Adam and the board to continue to drive growth and value for BT’s customers, shareholders and the UK.”

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