Welsh Water CEO to retire after raising bills by 27% this year

Daniel Bevan - Senior Journalist

The CEO of Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Peter Perry, has announced he will retire in the spring of next year, bringing to a close a career spanning more than 40 years with the company.

Mr. Perry began his journey with Welsh Water as an apprentice in the early 1980s and steadily progressed through a range of operational and leadership roles. He was appointed Chief Operating Officer in 2013, became Managing Director in 2017, and ultimately took on the role of Chief Executive in 2020.

His decision to retire follows the company’s announcement in January of a 27% increase in customer bills. Welsh Water stated the rise would help fund more than £4 billion in investments, including £2.5 billion dedicated to environmental improvements.

Reflecting on his career, Mr. Perry said he was “incredibly proud to have spent my career in an organisation that plays such a key role in protecting public health and makes a genuine difference every single day.”

“To have had the opportunity to lead the company as Chief Executive has been a huge honour,” he added, “as well as seeing the tireless work and sacrifices made by colleagues when trying to maintain our services, especially during some exceptional weather events.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and the strong foundations we’ve laid for the next five years and beyond.

“I have every confidence that Welsh Water will continue to go from strength to strength in the years ahead and I will continue to drive such improvement until my retirement.”

The company acknowledged that Mr. Perry had led them through some of the most challenging periods in its history, including the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing environmental pressures, and sector-wide financial difficulties. Throughout, he remained focused on delivering for customers and communities across Wales and Herefordshire.

Chair of the Board, Jane Hanson CBE, praised his legacy: “Peter’s story is truly inspirational – from apprentice to Chief Executive, his journey embodies everything that Welsh Water stands for in terms of values.

“His leadership has been defined by a deep understanding of the business, a genuine care for our people and customers, and a commitment to doing the right thing now and for the long term.

“On behalf of the Board and everyone at Welsh Water, I want to sincerely thank Peter for his exceptional service and wish him every happiness in his retirement.”