Severn Trent appoints new chair

Christine Hodgson has been appointed next chair of the company for Severn Trent with effect from April 2020 when Andrew Duff is due to retire.

Hodgson will join the board as an independent non-executive director in January 2020 as well as a member of numerous committees.

Her CV includes a current role as senior independent director of Standard Chartered and executive chair of Capgemini UK – which she will step down from on assuming the role at Severn Trent. Until 2017 Hodgson was independent non-executive director of Ladbrokes Coral Group.

Kevin Beeston, Severn Trent’s senior independent director said: “I am delighted that Christine will be joining the company as our new chair. I believe that she brings the right mix of board and business skills and experience, as well as a real understanding of our culture and commitment to serve all of our stakeholders well.”

Hodgson will chair the boards of both Severn Trent and Severn Trent Water Limited upon Duff’s departure as well as a member of the corporate responsibility, nominations and remuneration committees and chair of the nominations committee.

Duff, who has held the position of chair for more than nine years, said: “Severn Trent is a great company and one that I have been incredibly proud to work for. As we prepare to implement our new AMP7 business plan, following selection as one of only three companies awarded Fast Track status by Ofwat, I wish Christine every success as she sets out to lead Severn Trent into its next important phase.”

Hodgson said: “I am very pleased to have been appointed as a director and chair designate of Severn Trent.  I look forward to working with the Board, the executive team and our stakeholders on the opportunities ahead.”