A former broadcast journalist from Jersey has joined the executive team of South East Water at what has been described as a “pivotal moment” for the utility.
Katy Ringsdore’s new role as chief corporate affairs officer was one of two appointments recently announced by the company, which supplies drinking water to millions of customers in the south east of England.
It marks the latest chapter in a career comprising over a decade of media experience, including locally as a radio and television broadcaster, as well as work for multiple banks and global brands such as Huawei.
More recently, she served as group director of external communications at Pennon Group, which owns a number of water businesses.
Katy’s deep corporate affairs experience will ensure external insight shapes our strategic decisions
South East Water chief executive John Halsall
“There has never been a more important time for water companies to listen to the communities they serve and demonstrate through their actions that they understand customer expectations,” Ms Ringsdore said.
“Rebuilding trust must run through every decision an organisation makes.”
She joins South East Water alongside Kerri Ricketts, who has taken up the role of customer services director and whose background includes time as customer excellence lead for the UK’s largest rail operator.
Ms Ricketts said: “I am delighted to have joined South East Water at a time of significant transformation.
“My priority is to be the voice of our 2.4 million customers within the executive team – ensuring we listen to our customers, deliver improvements in what matters most to them and consistently deliver the high standard of customer service our communities deserve.
“My focus will be ensuring our communities have a strong voice in those conversations and that we are open about both our progress and where we have more to do.”
South East Water chief executive John Halsall said the duo brought “exceptional leadership” to the executive team “at a pivotal moment”.
“Katy’s deep corporate affairs experience will ensure external insight shapes our strategic decisions, while Kerri will be a relentless customer champion ensuring their needs drive our day-to-day operations and are embedded across our transformation programme.”
