Hunter Water congratulates Darren Cleary on appointment to lead Sydney Water

Hunter Water’s Managing Director, Darren Cleary, has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Sydney Water.

Chair of Hunter Water’s Board, Elizabeth Crouch AM, said Mr Cleary’s appointment is fitting recognition by the Government of his leadership in the water industry in NSW.

“Darren has made an outstanding contribution to Hunter Water and our region since becoming Managing Director in 2020. He has overseen the development and implementation of the Lower Hunter Water Security Plan, the recent IPART pricing process, commenced construction of the Belmont Desalination Plant, and guided the organisation in responding to drought, flood, and emerging issues like PFAS.

“Darren’s extraordinary achievements as Managing Director provide a significant positive legacy that positions Hunter Water strongly for the future. It is a bittersweet moment for Hunter Water as we farewell Darren, but we thank him for his great service to the community in the Hunter. We are extremely proud that his leadership has been recognised with this important appointment to Sydney Water.”

Mr Cleary will conclude his role at Hunter Water on Friday 24 October, and commence with Sydney Water in November 2025.

Hunter Water’s Board of Directors has initiated a recruitment process for a new Managing Director and has appointed Jennifer Hayes as the organisation’s Acting Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Hayes brings a wealth of experience to the Acting Chief Executive Officer role with more than seven years with Hunter Water as its Executive Manager, Finance and Business Performance, and previously across a range of sectors including primary health, fast moving consumer goods and regional development.