Severn Trent has appointed John Devall to the newly created role of head of asset planning and strategic investment to lead the development of the company’s long-term investment strategy.
Devall will work with the executive team to oversee the committed £6 billion investment until 2020. He will also be responsible for supporting the company’s pledge to investing sustainably for the long-term.
With almost 40 years’ operational experience in the water sector, Devall will drive forward Severn Trent’s approach to “proactive asset management” and the strategic investment plan for the next regulatory period (2020-2025).
He will join Severn Trent in May from Northumbrian Water Group where he is currently director of water with overall responsibility for all the company’s water operations, long-term water resource planning, treatment works and water distribution.
Liv Garfield, chief executive of Severn Trent, said: “We own some of the most incredible infrastructure, and recognise just what a crucial role it plays in the everyday lives of our 8.1 million customers. John is the perfect custodian of our long-term asset planning and I am therefore thrilled that he is joining the Severn Trent family.”
Devall added: “I’m really proud and privileged to be in a position where I make such a positive impact in such an essential public service for now and for future generations. Having been offered this tremendously exciting opportunity at Severn Trent, I’m looking forward to continuing to make a difference within the water industry”.
A spokesperson from Northumbrian Water Group said the recruitment process for a replacement for Devall is “well underway” and it expects to make an announcement soon.