Three Regional Deputy Chairs
for WaterShare+
When WaterShare+ needed to appoint three new Regional Deputy Chairs across Bristol, Bournemouth, and Cornwall, it turned to long-term search partner Moon Executive Search.
WaterShare+ is a unique customer engagement scheme and independent challenge panel for Pennon Group's water companies; SouthWest Water, Bristol Water, Bournemouth Water and Sutton & East Surrey Water.
Having supported Pennon Group with executive appointments since 2006 and independently made board appointments for WaterShare+ since 2020, Moon brought not only market expertise to this search but a deep understanding of WaterShare+ and its values.
The requirements arose through a planned programme of board rotation. Moon Executive Search was tasked with delivering three senior appointments simultaneously, each serving a distinct geographical region and requiring a different mix of experience, networks, and local understanding.
Led by Simon Quinn, Director of Search, and Vanessa Moon, Founding Director, the campaign combined targeted executive search with a comprehensive advertising strategy. The challenge was to identify candidates with the right profile and gravitas to offer strategic, independent insight in a non-executive capacity to champion customer interests, influence decision-making, and help shape the future of water services in each region.
Moon’s expertise enabled us to screen and efficiently shortlist the candidates who demonstrated experience of independent challenge and scrutiny, an appreciation of the complexity of the water industry, and relevant knowledge of the local communities and stakeholder landscape. Moon's long-standing relationship with key stakeholders meant the team already understood the importance of customer representation and the qualities required to succeed within the WaterShare+ framework. This enabled the search to progress efficiently whilst maintaining an exceptional standard of candidate assessment and stakeholder engagement.
The campaign resulted in the successful appointment of three highly accomplished leaders.
David Smith was appointed Deputy Chair for the Bristol region. Having held senior leadership positions across major utilities and consultancy organisations, David brings extensive experience of transformation programmes, customer engagement and stakeholder management.
Robert Gould was appointed Deputy Chair for the Bournemouth region. A former Board Member of the Environment Agency, Robert brings considerable Chair, non-executive and regulatory experience.
Dr Lisa Ackerley was appointed Deputy Chair for the Cornwall region. Bringing significant experience of Board membership in voluntary and NGO sectors, Lisa’s reputation as a consumer champion and public health advocate particularly stood out,
The three appointments commenced in early 2026, providing WaterShare+ with a strong foundation of regional leadership as it continues to champion customer interests and environmental accountability across Pennon Group's operating regions.
“What made this assignment unusual was that it was effectively three executive searches running at the same time. Although the purpose of each role was the same, every region required a distinct perspective, different stakeholder connections, and a different candidate proposition. Our long-standing relationship with key stakeholders meant we understood exactly what WaterShare+ was looking for, enabling us to build strong shortlists for each region and ultimately secure three outstanding appointments.”
“Moon Executive Search managed a challenging multi-region recruitment programme with professionalism, efficiency and a clear understanding of our objectives. Simon and Vanessa delivered credible, high-quality candidates across all three regions. We are delighted with the appointments and the strength of leadership they will bring to WaterShare+.”
A partnership built on trust.
This assignment is the latest chapter in a long-term client relationship spanning multiple senior search campaigns. By combining deep organisational knowledge with a rigorous and targeted search approach, Moon successfully delivered three strategic appointments simultaneously, ensuring WaterShare+ continues to benefit from strong independent leadership and customer representation across the Southwest.
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