EDF celebrates 30 years in Sunderland

Hundreds of employees at EDF came together at the company's regional head office in Sunderland last week to celebrate its 30^th anniversary.

London Electricity opened its first regional office at Doxford International Business Park in November 1995, three years before the company was acquired by EDF.

Fast-forward three decades and the company now employs over 1,200 people at the site and is continuing to invest in the region courtesy of its ongoing recruitment drive.

The Doxford office is the largest of the company's three UK contact centres and also houses representatives from across the business, from marketing and communications to HR and IT teams.

Such a success has the Doxford office proven, that it has accrued an average employee tenure of 11.5 years and has seven employees who have been with the company since the first office opened in 1995.

Jo Pyburn, Residential Operational Director at EDF (UK) and Principal Tenant, said: "I'm proud that EDF has maintained a strong and sustainable presence as an employer in the North East for over 30 years. This long-standing commitment reflects our dedication to supporting both our people and the communities we serve.

"Our recognition as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 reinforces our people-first culture and focus on creating an inclusive, supportive environment. At our site, we provide exceptional facilities, including wellbeing services, collaborative workspaces, and recreational areas, all designed to enable our teams to thrive."

A celebratory event was held to mark the anniversary, with senior management from across the business visiting to meet staff and learn more about the key role its teams play in supporting the company's five million UK customers.

A 90's themed party and family dinner was also held for staff to celebrate with their colleagues and to 'thank them for their role in the company's success over the years.'

Jo added: "I'm honoured to lead such a talented and dedicated team who consistently strive to deliver outstanding service to our customers. Together, we continue to uphold EDF's reputation as a trusted energy provider and an employer of choice."

Kerry Lawson, Kevin Munday and Paula Jefferson have worked from the Sunderland office since it opened its doors on 20^th November 1995 and were among the staff joining the celebrations.

Prior to working in Sunderland, Kevin, now aged 59, worked for London Electricity in the South of England but loved the North East so much that he decided to move to the city permanently.

He said: "I've loved every minute working here. I've made friends for life, worked on some fantastic projects and have a great team around me.

"In fact, I've enjoyed it so much that I even encouraged my partner's daughter to work here, which speaks volumes about how great a place it is to work. They really look after us and are a great company to work for. Here's hopefully to even more years!"

Representatives from Sunderland City Council's business investment team, who have worked closely with EDF over the past 30 years, also met with the delegation visiting the hub and to receive a tour of the office.

Cllr Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, business and regeneration, said: "It was a privilege to join the EDF team and celebrate 30 years of the company doing business in our city.

"Over the past three decades, the company has continued to invest in its business and people, contributing significantly to our local economy while helping to put Sunderland on the map as one of the UK's leading contact centre hubs.

"On behalf of Sunderland City Council, I would like to congratulate everyone at EDF Sunderland on this remarkable achievement and thank them for the role they've played in shaping what is a fantastic success story for our city."