New chief executive for Watercare

Auckland’s public water utility has announced Jamie Sinclair as its next chief executive.

Watercare board chair Geoff Hunt says that following a comprehensive candidate market search, supported by an external agency and a diverse selection panel, the organisation is “thrilled” to have found the ideal candidate within its own ranks.

“While the quality of the candidates was exceptionally high, Jamie Sinclair emerged as the standout choice,” said Hunt.

Sinclair is Watercare’s deputy chief executive and has previously held senior roles in the United Kingdom and New Zealand, most recently as chief executive of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei before joining Watercare in 2021.

“Jamie brings extensive experience in accounting and holds a postgraduate diploma in environmental management, uniquely preparing him for this role,” Hunt says.

“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,” says Hunt.

“We’re excited to see Jamie Sinclair lead Watercare into the future, ushering in a new era for the organisation.

“He’s known for his authenticity and principles, making him the perfect fit to lead Watercare’s strong culture.”

Hunt says the board thanks outgoing chief executive Dave Chambers, who has previously announced his intention to leave the role on June 30.

“When the direction of water reform changed early last year, Auckland was exceptionally lucky Dave was able to extend his contract to see Watercare through its transition under Local Water Done Well policy.

“Dave has done an excellent job leading Watercare through this significant period of change and challenges.”

Hunt says a transition plan is being worked on, and Sinclair’s start date will be confirmed soon.

What Watercare does

Every day, Watercare supplies around 440 million litres of safe drinking water to 1.7 million people in Auckland.

It also collects and treats their wastewater.

Over the next 10 years, it says it will carry out more than 1000 projects to improve and expand Auckland’s water and wastewater infrastructure, investing an average of $3.8 million every day, $13.8 billion in total.

“Our infrastructure investment programme will help to keep our precious environment healthy by reducing the frequency of wastewater overflows onto land and into waterways,” it says.