NSW Government appoints new managing director for Hunter Water

The NSW Government has appointed Jennifer Hayes as Hunter Water’s new Managing Director following a comprehensive recruitment process.

Ms Hayes brings a wealth of experience to the role having previously held leadership positions with global fast-moving consumer goods company, Mars, Incorporated, as well as Non-Executive Director positions in primary health, education and regional development.

Ms Hayes has held the role of Executive Manager and Chief Financial Officer at Hunter Water for seven years and is now the first woman to lead Hunter Water as Managing Director in its 134-year history.

As one of the state’s publicly owned utilities, Hunter Water provides safe and reliable essential services to almost 650,000 people and is progressing key initiatives to secure the region’s water future including the Belmont Desalination Plant.

Ms Hayes played a crucial role in supporting the business case for the Belmont Desalination Plant and is highly regarded for her strategic insight, her commercial acumen and commitment to stakeholder engagement. 

Hunter Water’s Managing Director role became vacant following the appointment of Darren Cleary as Sydney Water’s new CEO.

Ms Hayes begins in the role from today, Monday 23 March.

Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:

“I’m excited to announce the appointment of Jennifer Hayes as Managing Director and look forward to seeing Hunter Water continue to thrive under her leadership as it keeps delivering reliable, sustainable and customer-focused services for the Lower Hunter region.

“Her knowledge of the organisation, diverse business background and substantial leadership experience mean Hunter Water is in trusted, capable hands going forward.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“The appointment of Ms Hayes is about making sure the Hunter’s water is managed with a real, on-the-ground understanding of how things work up here.

“We need leadership that understands the pressures we’re facing right now, from growth to drought, while keeping a clear focus on our responsibilities to the generations to come. 

“After seven years working with Hunter Water, I’m confident Ms Hayes has the experience and the commitment to make sure people across the Hunter have water that’s reliable, affordable and properly looked after.”

Chair of the Hunter Water Board, Elizabeth Crouch AM said:

“The Board welcomes the appointment of Jennifer Hayes as Managing Director of Hunter Water. Her selection follows an extensive recruitment process, during which she distinguished herself as the leading candidate within a strong field.

“As a respected leader within Hunter Water and indeed the region, she is well skilled to lead the organisation through the next stage of its development, focussing on water security, climate adaptability and customer care.

“Jen’s finance and business background, coupled with her experience in the water sector, health and regional Australia, are great assets for Hunter Water.”