In Memoriam

John Besant Jones (1941-2024)

The news of John Besant Jones’ (JBJ) passing was reported in the 1818 Summer Quarterly.

Eugene McCarthy: John made an enormous, and lasting, contribution to the Bank’s energy work over more than two decades. He was an outstanding energy economist, someone who contributed substantively to the Bank’s policy work in the energy sector. After retirement from the Bank, John returned to the UK where he spent his final years in Hampshire, looking after his family and avidly following the fortunes of England-in rugby, cricket, and soccer. The tributes below, from a number of his colleagues with whom he worked closely, provide a testimony to the high regard, both professionally and personally, in which he was held.

Istvan Dobozi: John was an intellectual giant in the energy sector and a mentor of so many people

Richard Stern: As a professional energy economist, John towered above his energy peers. His quiet and thoughtful personality also allowed him to provide constructive advice and guidance to his colleagues, who greatly respected him in return. I will be forever grateful for the sage counselling he gave to me personally. John, you were a great bloke- we miss you.

Alastair McKechnie: I first met John in the late 1970s when seconded to his firm for a water study in Sudan. Then, and later in the Bank, I was impressed by his intellectual rigor and willingness to go where facts and analysis led, even if this clashed with prevailing narratives and political convenience. Such practical leaders with deep knowledge and integrity are rare. John was a leader of his profession and an inspiration to many.

Hal Wackman: John was a superb professional and an outstanding energy economist.

James Bond: John combined intellectual rigor (one of the finest brains on energy regulation) and great kindness; he was great fun to work with. We will all miss him dreadfully. What an intellect. What a man!

Hossein Razavi: He had a vast knowledge of the energy sector, outstanding professionalism, and a willingness to help all.

Stratos Tavoulareas: One of the best professionals I have met; I learned so much from him.

Dominique Lallement: John was not only an outstanding professional but also the kindest of colleagues.

Gary Stuggins: John Besant-Jones was the best energy economist I have ever worked with anywhere in the world. The world has lost a great one.

Salman Zaheer: An intellectual giant, a mentor to many of us, and a thorough gentleman.