Urban Utilities has named David Ryan, currently Chief Executive of SA Water, as its next Chief Executive Officer, following a national recruitment process. Ryan will join the organisation on 12 January 2027, succeeding Paul Arnold, whose tenure concludes on 30 October 2026. Interim leadership arrangements for the intervening period will be confirmed shortly.
Ryan has spent more than 20 years in the Australian water industry, holding senior roles at SA Water, Melbourne Water and City West Water. His background covers utility operations, infrastructure planning and delivery, regulation, customer outcomes and government relations.
Urban Utilities Chair Paul Vincent said the Board was pleased to secure a leader of Ryan’s standing. “David brings a compelling combination of values-based leadership experience, strong strategic capability and industry expertise and a genuine passion for serving customers and communities,” said Vincent.
He added that Ryan’s track record running large, complex utilities would be an asset as Urban Utilities continues investing in infrastructure for one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, and said the Board was confident Ryan could guide the organisation through a period of transformation in how it plans, delivers and operates its water and wastewater services.
Ryan said he was honoured by the appointment and was looking forward to relocating to Queensland. “I’m joining the Urban Utilities team at a time of significant change as we manage a growing population, increased demand for our services and the need to invest to ensure longevity to service future generations,” said Ryan, adding that he was keen to work with the business and the Board through this period of change.
Urban Utilities is currently delivering a $6.7 billion infrastructure investment programme over the next decade to serve its growing customer base.
