The International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) has announced its leadership appointments for the 2024-2026 term, signalling a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and global water sustainability. Mr Jon Freedman, Global Head of Policy and Stakeholder Engagement for Water Quality at Veralto, has been elected President. Mr Carlos Cosín, CEO of Almar Water Solutions, will serve as 1st Vice President, while Mr Hoon Hyung, President of LG Water Solutions, assumes the role of 2nd Vice President. Completing the leadership team are Mrs Jantje Johnson, CEO of Orangeboat, as Secretary of the Board, and Mr Imad Makhzoumi, CEO of Enoia, as Treasurer.
Ms Shannon McCarthy, reappointed as IDRA Secretary General, expressed confidence in the incoming leadership. “We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Freedman as our next President. His vision and commitment to water security will undoubtedly propel IDRA’s mission forward.”
Mr Jon Freedman brings extensive experience in water sustainability, having held senior leadership positions at GE, SUEZ, and Veolia. Currently based in Washington, DC, he leads global policy initiatives for Veralto’s Water Quality Segment. A recognized advocate for sustainable water management, he has contributed significantly to both industry and academia, including teaching at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Previously he served as First Vice President of IDRA.
As the incoming President, Mr Freedman said: “It is an honour to lead IDRA during such a pivotal time for water sustainability. Together with our members and partners, we will continue to drive innovation and collaboration to address the global water challenges we face.”
Mr Carlos Cosín, a well-known leader in the water sector, has over 20 years of experience in water infrastructure development and project finance. He served as President of IDRA from 2019 to 2022. As CEO of Almar Water Solutions, he has led projects that advance water sustainability worldwide. He also serves as President of the Centre for Water and Climate Adaptation at IE University, fostering skills and knowledge for climate resilience and water security.
Mr Hoon Hyung, President of LG Water Solutions, has overseen the company’s rapid growth in desalination and advanced water treatment technologies. Under his leadership, LG Water Solutions has delivered major desalination projects and achieved significant milestones in global water treatment capacity. His expertise spans engineering, operations, and collaboration with global partners to advance cutting-edge water solutions. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of IDRA since 2022.
IDRA’s newly appointed leadership reaffirms the organization’s commitment to addressing global water challenges through innovation and cooperation. The full slate of officers and committee chairs for the 2024-2026 term will be finalized by end of January 2025.
