South West Water Boss Susan Davy Resigns Amid Growing Criticism

Susan Davy, the chief executive of Pennon Group—the parent company of South West Water—has announced her resignation

After nearly two decades with the company and close to 30 years in the water industry, Ms Davy said she is stepping down from the board and her role as CEO, citing that "the time is right to hand over to a new leader."

Her departure follows a series of high-profile controversies. Last year, a Cryptosporidium outbreak in Brixham affected more than 100 people. More recently, a major supply disruption left thousands of Plymouth residents without water for several days. The backlash intensified this week when a group of MPs, led by Plymouth Labour MP Fred Thomas, urged her to return what they described as a £200,000 “bonus” to customers.

Although Ms Davy clarified that she did not receive a bonus this year, her total pay package amounted to £803,000, including £191,000 in variable pay.

Appointed CEO in 2020 after five years as CFO, Ms Davy oversaw major acquisitions—including Bournemouth Water, Bristol Water, and SES Water—and led the £4.2 billion sale of Viridor. Earlier this year, she unveiled a record £3.2 billion capital investment plan for the next five years and championed the Watershare+ scheme, designed to give customers a voice and a stake in the business.

Pennon Group has begun the search for her successor. Ms Davy will remain in her post during the transition to ensure continuity.