Seqwater has appointed a new CEO after a nationwide recruitment process.
Emma Thomas brings more than 30 years of experience across several sectors, including aviation, rail, public transport, infrastructure and local government.
The utility said that as a well-respected and passionate leader, Ms Thomas will steer Seqwater to ensure the continued delivery of safe, secure, and cost-effective drinking water to more than 3.8 million people.
With a proven track record of driving outcomes and a deep understanding of major project complexities, Ms Thomas joins Seqwater after serving as the Interim CEO of the Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority since May 2024.
Seqwater Board Chair, Neville Ide, said Ms Thomas is an exceptional leader who will help guide Seqwater through the next chapter of growth, focusing on significant dam infrastructure projects being planned as part of its largest-ever capital works program.
“The Board is delighted to welcome Emma, and we look forward to working closely with her to oversee Seqwater’s strategic priorities, including ensuring the region’s growing communities have access to a safe, secure and valued water supply into the future, especially as we face population growth and climate challenges.”
Mr Ide said Seqwater manages up to $11 billion of water supply assets, including the more than 600km of pipeline that make up the SEQ Water Grid. It also operates and maintains dams, weirs, water treatment plants, and infrastructure assets and is the steward of 65,000ha of water supply catchments.
“On behalf of the Seqwater Board, we thank and acknowledge Interim CEO Will Harpham for effectively taking on the role for the past nine months.
“Will has overseen the delivery of vital infrastructure, bridge and pipeline upgrades, as well as ensuring our major improvement projects continued to progress,” he said.
Seqwater CEO, Emma Thomas, said she is excited to dive into the world of water and provide essential water services for the growing region.
“Seqwater is one of Australia’s largest water businesses, with the most geographically spread and diverse asset base of any capital city water authority.
“It is a privilege to lead this important work and ensure the people of South East Queensland continue to have water security for generations to come.”
