Hydro Tasmania has appointed its first female CEO in the company’s history.
Rachel Watson will step into the top role at the state-owned energy provider after more than a decade in the renewable energy industry.
Watson joins Hydro from global renewable developer OX2, where she is currently Country Manager.
She previously held the position of CEO at Pacific Hydro Australia and was Chair of the Clean Energy Council.
“I am honoured and delighted to take up this role,” Watson said.
“There are very exciting opportunities and challenges ahead and I am really looking forward to working on Hydro Tasmania’s ambitious agenda, together with the Hydro Tasmania team.”
Hydro Tasmania Chair Richard Bolt said Watson will bring a wealth of international experience in hydro, solar and wind power to the role.
“Rachel is known in the energy industry as a dynamic and passionate leader with a strong focus on the commercial and cultural aspects of business,” he said.
“Rachel will lead Hydro Tasmania through one of its most important periods of change.”
He said Watson’s appointment means Hydro Tasmania’s executive team will be among the “very few in the energy industry” with a majority of women.
I am very pleased that a leader of her talent and integrity has chosen to join us,” Bolt said.
Hydro Tasmania’s Executive General Manager of Strategy Erin van Maanen has been Acting CEO since Ian Brooksbank’s retirement in October.
Van Maanen will continue as Acting CEO until Watson officially starts on April 14 next year.
