Linda Smith, who for many is “the voice of Belco”, will retire from the company at the end of the year.

She has worked for Ascendant Group, the parent company of Belco, for 24 years, mostly in communications and external relations roles.

During Hurricane Nicole earlier this month she provided the Emergency Measures Organisation’s radio station with regular updates on the status of Belco’s electricity system during the storm. It was a role she fulfilled in a similar fashion through several past hurricanes.

Ms Smith is senior vice-president corporate relations with Ascendant Group, and will retire on December 31.

She established the public relations department in 1988 and led the company’s communications through 1998.

Following a company restructure, she returned in 2002 to lead the external relations and corporate communications department.

In a statement, Ascendant said: “Many know her best as the ‘voice of Belco’, as she has led the company’s communications through several major hurricanes and events.”

Sean Durfy, chief executive officer of Ascendant, said: “Linda has been a valuable member of the senior management team and an important contributor to Ascendant Group. We wish her continued success as she pursues the next stage of her career.”

Ms Smith said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ascendant. It is a great company, with great people who deeply care about Bermuda and are steadfastly committed to serving Bermuda with reliable electricity service and solid corporate support for community-based services, educational programs and employee training.”