BT Group Appoint Greg McCall as New UK Chief Security and Networks Officer

Telecoms giant BT Group has today announced the retirement of industry veteran Howard Watson as its Chief Security and Networks Officer (CSNO), which will take effect in March 2026. Greg McCall, the operator’s current Chief Networks Officer (CNO), will be promoted to replace him – effective 1st January 2026.

Howard Watson is one of the industry’s most familiar figures and will leave behind a strong legacy. Howard spent more than a decade at BT and over 40 years in the telecoms industry.

Meanwhile, since joining BT in 2013, Greg has held various senior roles across the business and helped spearhead the UK’s first 5G network, among other things.

Allison Kirkby, CEO of BT Group, 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.”