South Staffordshire Plc announces new Finance Director for South Staffordshire Water

South Staffordshire Plc, the integrated services Group that operates Cambridge Water and South Staffs Water, has announced it has appointed a new Finance Director for its two regulated water companies.

Joanna Smith joins the business from Halma Plc, a FTSE 100 global group of life-saving technology companies, where she was Chief Financial Officer of the Environmental and Analysis sector. Prior to this, Joanna held Managing Director roles at Fortress Safety, and Finance Director roles at UTC Aerospace Systems and Goodrich Actuation Systems.  

With a 25-year career in finance and leadership, Joanna is a vastly experienced and successful leader with deep expertise, having overseen finance operations and major projects within a variety of sectors. She has a proven record of strong delivery across a range of strategic financial disciplines.

Andy Willicott, MD of South Staffordshire Water said: 

“I am delighted to welcome Joanna to our business. Her leadership and financial expertise will greatly benefit our business as we head towards the delivery of our ambitious 2025-2030 business plan and our stretching commitments to our customers, employees, the environment and our investor.”

“I would also like to say thank you to our departing Finance Director, Abbie Poulton, for her commitment and contributions to our business throughout the current AMP and to wish her all the best in her new role.”

Joanna Smith added: 

Water is an essential resource for life, so I am excited about taking up a role at a business which is so important to daily living. The water sector is entering an exciting time as it approaches a new AMP, and I am looking forward to playing my part in helping South Staffordshire Water to achieve its investment plans and performance commitments whilst keeping customer bills affordable.”