Watercare supplies drinking water and wastewater facilities to 1.7 million people - more than a third of New Zealand's population. Photo: Supplied/ Watercare
Watercare has appointed current deputy chief executive Jamie Sinclair as the new boss of the Auckland Council-owned water utility.
Sinclair was chief executive of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei before joining Watercare in 2021.
Incoming Watercare boss, Jamie Sinclair, who is the organisation's current deputy chief executive. Photo: Supplied/ Watercare
Outgoing chief executive Dave Chambers previously announced his intention to leave the role by 30 June 2025.
His contract was extended to oversee Watercare's transition under the government's Three Waters Replacement, Local Water Done Well.
Watercare Board chair Geoff Hunt said Sinclair had been a leading figure in its process of becoming financially independent from the council.
"Jamie brings extensive experience in accounting and holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management, uniquely preparing him for this role. His broad understanding of the business and his exemplary leadership through the current major regulatory change and related financial separation process have demonstrated his exceptional capabilities.
"As Watercare transitions to operating as a fully regulated utility, Jamie's leadership will be crucial. The organisation faces significant tasks from now until December as we transform to operate in this new fully regulated environment, financially independent from Auckland Council. It's an exciting period of change for the organisation and Jamie's vision will be instrumental in navigating this."
Hunt said a transition plan was currently being worked on and Sinclair's start date would be confirmed soon.
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