Sydney Water’s Board has appointed Niall Blair as its new Chair, replacing outgoing Chair Grant King, who held the role for three years.
The appointment follows Mr Blair’s recent position as Director on the board of Sydney Water, with previous posts as New South Wales Minister for Water (2015–17) and involvement with Charles Sturt University.
Sydney Water Managing Director, Roch Cheroux, extended warm congratulations to Mr Blair and described his experience as a great asset to the leadership team.
“Niall is an exceptional Director and brings rich knowledge and enthusiasm for innovation to the Chair role,” Mr Cheroux said.
“His previous work as Minister for Water means he is well-placed to make decisions and lead the charge for Sydney Water’s next chapter.”
Mr Blair said he is thrilled to enter the role and looks forward to continuing Mr King’s legacy at Sydney Water.
“Sydney Water is at the forefront of development and change in Greater Sydney, with talented people working across the business to bring this vital utility service to our customers,” Mr Blair said.
“Grant’s tenure has guided many substantial developments, such as the upcoming pricing proposal for the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
“I’m proud to help bring our vision and goals for the future of Sydney’s water to life,” Mr Blair said.
Mr King served as Chair since 2021 and played a large part in steering Sydney Water through the impacts of COVID-19 and extreme weather events.
Mr King’s leadership saw the delivery of Sydney Water’s most comprehensive customer engagement program to date – Our Water, Our Voice – to understand customer priorities, as well as the once-in-a-generation Long Term Capital and Operational Plan to map out key infrastructure and operations to 2050.
Mr Blair started as Director at Sydney Water in August 2024.
He brings a wealth of experience from his involvement with boards, including the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, Cotton Regional Development Corporation, NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust, and Murrumbidgee Irrigation.
Featured image: From left, Sydney Water Chair, Niall Blair; Sydney Water Managing Director, Roch Cheroux. Image: Sydney Water.