Welsh Water has announced that Chairman Alastair Lyons will retire at the end of the year. Jane Hanson, a current board member, will assume the role from next year.
Lyons, who has been with the company since 2016, endorses Hanson, citing her vast experience and knowledge of the sector.
Transition in Leadership at Welsh Water
Welsh Water has announced the upcoming retirement of its chairman, Alastair Lyons, effective at the end of this year. Lyons, who has been with the company since 2016, will be succeeded by Jane Hanson, a current board member and chair of the audit committee. Hanson’s appointment will take effect from the beginning of next year.
Mr. Lyons, also a former chair of Admiral, expressed confidence in Hanson’s ability to lead the company. He highlighted her experience, stating, ‘Jane’s substantial executive and non-executive experience, as well as the knowledge of the water sector she gained in the past three years, will be invaluable.’
Jane Hanson’s Extensive Experience
Hanson joined the board of Welsh Water in 2021 and brings over 30 years of board-level experience in FTSE 100, regulated, and charitable organisations. She holds several other significant roles, including non-executive director at HM Treasury and chair of the audit and risk committee at the Civil Aviation Authority.
Her previous executive roles at prominent firms such as Aviva and KPMG have equipped her with a broad skill set. Lyons noted, ‘It has been a privilege to serve as chair, and I am certain Jane’s insight will help guide the company effectively.’
Strategic Vision for the Future
Hanson expressed her enthusiasm about taking on the new role during a pivotal time for the company and the sector.
She stated, ‘Since joining the board, I have been consistently impressed by the dedication of everyone at Welsh Water to do the right thing for our customers, communities, and the environment.’
Hanson emphasised the importance of maintaining the company’s strong ethos while driving performance improvements. Her focus will be crucial in the coming months and years as the company navigates various challenges.
Financial Achievements and Future Investments
In support of its next five-year regulatory period, Welsh Water recently raised £600 million through a successful bond issue, its first in three years. This financial milestone is expected to fund significant improvements and developments.
Welsh Water’s chief executive, Pete Perry, underlined the importance of this investment. He remarked that Lyons had guided the company through challenging times and ensured it remained focused on providing high-quality services.
Perry added, ‘I look forward to working with Jane as we embark on a new investment period that will bring record funding for improvements our customers expect.’
Acknowledging Alastair Lyons’ Contributions
During his tenure, Lyons played a critical role in steering Welsh Water through one of its most challenging periods. His leadership provided robust support to the executive team and reinforced the company’s core mission.
Lyons emphasised the importance of the company’s not-for-shareholder model, which allows it to focus solely on customer needs. He expressed gratitude to the staff for their dedication and support throughout his tenure.
His departure marks the end of a significant era, but the company is poised to continue its progress under Hanson’s capable leadership.
Commitment to Customer and Community
Hanson has stressed the ongoing commitment of Welsh Water to its customers and communities. She aims to uphold the company’s tradition of prioritising customer needs and environmental stewardship.
Maintaining a balance between operational efficiency and community service will be a focal point of her leadership.
Her approach looks to further enhance the well-being of all the communities served by the company, both now and in the future.
Looking Ahead
Welsh Water is set for a new chapter of growth and improvement under Jane Hanson’s leadership.
As the water sector faces increasing challenges, Hanson’s experience and vision will be instrumental in steering the company forward.
As Welsh Water embarks on a new chapter, Jane Hanson’s leadership promises to uphold the company’s values and focus on performance improvement.
The transition marks a significant milestone, positioning the company for future success and continued commitment to its customers and communities.
