New CEO named for South West Water and Pennon Group

Pennon Group, the parent company of South West Water, has appointed Keith Haslett as its new chief executive.

Mr Haslett, currently CEO of Affinity Water, will take up the role next year following the retirement of Susan Davy, who announced in July she would step down after 18 years with the utilities group.

A veteran of the industry, Mr Haslett has held senior roles at Northumbrian Water and United Utilities. He will lead Pennon during a crucial period marked by major investment plans and heightened regulatory scrutiny.

“I am delighted to be joining Pennon Group at such a critical time,” Mr Haslett said. “My priority will be to enhance customer service and deliver on an ambitious investment programme through 2030 and beyond, ensuring we meet the expectations of customers, stakeholders and regulators.”

Pennon’s chairman, David Sproul, welcomed the appointment, describing Mr Haslett as “a seasoned leader in the UK water sector” with more than 25 years of experience. “Keith brings a proven track record in operational excellence, major capital delivery, and shareholder value creation,” he said. Sproul also paid tribute to Ms Davy’s “exceptional contribution” and the “transformational growth strategy” she led during her tenure.

The FTSE 250 company recently reported a “strong return to profitability,” despite rising costs during this summer’s heatwave. It said water supplies remained “resilient” in the face of increased demand.

Pennon has also faced challenges this year. In April, South West Water agreed to pay £24 million after regulator Ofwat found the company had released wastewater into the environment when it should not have done.