David Hinton, chief executive of South East Water, has announced he will step down after widespread supply outages in Kent and Sussex. The move comes a week after the resignation of chair Chris Train following a scathing parliamentary report.
Hinton will remain in post until a successor is found to ensure an “orderly transition” over the summer. The company said he felt his position had become a distraction from the priority of delivering a resilient water supply.
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) committee had repeatedly called for Hinton to resign, saying the company was “devoid of proper leadership” and “riddled with cultural problems”. Thousands of customers were left without water between November and January due to multiple interruptions.
Environment secretary Emma Reynolds said Hinton’s departure “must mark the beginning of positive change” at the firm. Interim chair Lisa Clement thanked Hinton for his “loyal dedication and service”.
The Efra committee chair Alistair Carmichael welcomed the decision, saying “competent leadership is urgently needed”. The committee will continue to monitor the company.
