Schneider Electric has appointed Matthew Baynes as its Vice President for the Secure Power and Data Centre division in the UK and Ireland.
A respected figure in the data centre industry for over two decades, Matthew Baynes carries experience from global and regional leadership roles. His expertise spans ecosystem management, colocation strategy, and data centre commercial growth.
Baynes will lead Schneider Electric’s Secure Power and Data Centre business across the UK and Ireland. This role involves collaborating with Schneider Electric’s EcoXpert partners, local authorities, and ecosystem stakeholders to ensure the region is prepared for sustainable and resilient AI-ready data centre infrastructure. This development is supported by the government-backed AI Opportunities Action Plan.
Matthew Baynes commented, “The UK is one of Europe’s most important and vibrant digital infrastructure hubs and with AI accelerating demand, the next few years present an opportunity to strengthen its global leadership position. At the same time, Ireland continues to play a critical role in the region’s digital
ecosystem.” His outlook affirms Schneider Electric's commitment to advancing the digital economy in these regions.
Matthew has spent nearly 20 years enhancing Schneider Electric’s data centre business. As the former Global Vice President for Strategic Partners and Cloud Service Providers, he led the function as it grew to operate on a global scale. Earlier, as Global Colocation Segment Director, he initiated Schneider Electric’s first multi-country targeted account programme.
His contributions extend beyond company walls, having engaged with techUK and the European Data Centre Association (EUDCA) to help shape policy and promote sustainability.
Matthew Baynes’ new tenure aims to ensure the company delivers AI-ready solutions across data centres, energy management, and more, during this transformative AI era. Pablo Ruiz-Escribano, Senior VP for Europe, expressed confidence in Baynes' capacity to handle the growth challenges. "His track record in building high-performing teams, influencing complex ecosystems and scaling data centre programmes will be instrumental as our customers navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI."
Matthew's appointment begins with immediate effect, signaling a key phase in reinforcing Schneider Electric’s role in UK infrastructure.
