Greg McCall appointed Chief Security and Networks Officer at BT Group, as Howard Watson announces retirement

BT announces the appointment of Greg McCall as Chief Security and Networks Officer, effective 1 January 2026. Greg succeeds Howard Watson, who will retire in March 2026 after more than a decade at BT and over 40 years in the telecoms industry.

Greg will lead BT’s next chapter of network leadership in support of our strategy to become the UK’s most trusted connector of people, business and society ensuring we deliver on our target of full fibre to 30 million UK premises, 5G to more than 90% of the UK, and 5G+ reaching 99% of the population by 2030, as well as keeping BT Group, the country and our customers safe and secure.

Since joining BT in 2013, Greg has held senior roles across the business. He spearheaded the UK’s first 5G network, delivered the Emergency Services Network for the UK and led the rapid launch of BT Sport, not to mention delivering award-winning broadband and mobile networks earning BT the only 900-point score in the Umlaut Benchmark and launching cutting-edge products like Wi-Fi 7.

Howard Watson leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Under his leadership, BT has positioned itself at the forefront of AI and quantum research and has been responsible for the security and operational resilience that keeps our customers and the country safe.

Allison Kirkby, Chief Executive, BT said: “I am delighted to appoint Greg as our new Chief Security and Networks Officer and a key member of BT’s Executive Committee. Greg is a fantastic example of the bench strength we have within BT, having contributed over many years to our network leadership position. With Howard now passing the baton to Greg, our network, and its trusted status, is in strong hands. We are also all incredibly grateful for Howard’s dedication, deep technical expertise, and the lasting impact he’s made not just on BT, but on the industry, over many years, and wish him well in his retirement.”

Howard Watson said: “For me, as a telecoms technologist, this has been the best job of my career. I am incredibly proud to have led a team that built our position as the UK’s leading network, led critical research that positions us for an AI and Quantum future and driven BT’s security and operational resilience for our customers and the UK. I leave with immense pride and gratitude, and full confidence in Greg and the team to take things forward.”

Greg McCall commented: “I’m proud to carry forward the momentum built by Howard, and alongside our brilliant Networks team, continue to deliver a reliable, secure, high-quality connectivity for our customers and the UK. I’m energised by what’s ahead, innovating in AI and cyber security, and shaping a future that’s faster, smarter, safer, and more connected for everyone. It’s a real privilege to lead this next chapter, and I can’t wait to get started.”

BT Group is the UK’s leading provider of fixed and mobile telecommunications and related secure digital products, solutions and services.

BT Group consists of three customer-facing units: Consumer serves individuals and families in the UK; Business covers companies and public services; Openreach is an independently governed, wholly owned subsidiary wholesaling fixed access infrastructure services to its customers - over 700 communications providers across the UK.

British Telecommunications plc is a wholly owned subsidiary of BT Group plc and encompasses virtually all businesses and assets of the BT Group. BT Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange.

For more information, visit www.bt.com/about