Former South East Queensland Bulk Water Authority Chief Executive, Neil Brennan, has been appointed interim chief executive of Waikato Waters Limited in New Zealand.
Waikato Waters Limited Establishment Board Chair, Elena Trout said Mr Brennan brings deep leadership experience in complex, large-scale water and infrastructure organisations at a time when Waikato Waters is moving toward operational readiness.
“Neil is a highly respected water sector leader with a strong track record of guiding organisations through transition, major capital programmes and stakeholder complexity,” Ms Trout said.
“His experience will be invaluable as we prepare Waikato Waters for Day One and continue the search for a permanent Chief Executive.”
Mr Brennan (pictured) served as Chief Executive of Australia’s South East Queensland Bulk Water Authority from 2018 to May 2024, where he was responsible for delivering safe, secure and cost-effective bulk water supply to more than 3.6 million people. His role included oversight of a $1 billion operating budget and a capital investment programme exceeding $3 billion, alongside major governance, risk management and stakeholder engagement responsibilities.
Mr Brennan has also held Chief Executive and Managing Director roles with Macedon Region Water Authority, Western Region Water Authority, Central Highlands Water, Western Water, and as Interim Managing Director of Goulburn Murray Water.
The recruitment process for the inaugural permanent Chief Executive of Waikato Waters is now underway. Waikato Waters will be one of the central New Zealand region’s largest entities, with assets of approximately $1.6 billion, serving communities across the Waikato on behalf of its shareholding councils.
