South East Water’s new Managing Director

South East Water has appointed a new Managing Director, following an extensive local and international recruitment process.

Ms Terri Benson will take up the position on 29 May 2017. A highly experienced Chief Executive Officer, Ms Benson has held a range of both executive and non-executive director roles in the government utility and private infrastructure sectors.

She is a former CEO of SEQWater, and a former Managing Director of Essential Energy, responsible for the delivery of electricity services across 95 per cent of New South Wales. She held leadership roles in Essential Energy’s predecessor organisations, working at an executive level in most operational areas over a 14-year career.

Ms Benson’s non-executive director roles include directorships at CBHS Health Fund, DUET, the Energy Networks Association and Gas Market Company. She is also a former Chair of the Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW.

Prior to joining South East Water, Ms Benson was the Managing Director of Birdon, a diversified engineering and services business providing innovative solutions to the military and marine industries with operations across Australia, USA and Europe. She has led the Australian business through a period of significant growth and change.

South East Water Chair Lucia Cade said, “Terri has an impressive record as a transformational leader with the ability to create an environment where people can innovate and achieve their maximum potential.

“This will enable South East Water to continue to transform the way we deliver services to our customers through such ground-breaking projects as Aquarevo, Peninsula ECO, and the integrated water management framework for Fishermans Bend.

“The board was impressed with Terri’s strong focus on developing a partnership approach with stakeholders and engaging with customers and the broader community. This will set up South East Water perfectly to execute on the goals laid out in the Victorian Government’s Water For Victoria plan.

“Her business and organisational expertise will enable us to continue to operate a strong, sustainable business delivering affordable essential water services to a growing population.”

Minister for Water Lisa Neville said Ms Benson brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding to South East Water through her past utility executive leadership roles.

“It’s wonderful to welcome Ms Benson to South East Water, she will bring valuable skills and experience. Water corporations continue to appoint highly experienced and skilled women to senior executive roles,” said Ms Neville.