British Water has announced two new appointments - Stephen Slessor as its new Chair and Evangelos Petropoulos as the new Chair for its UK Forum.

Stephen Slessor succeeds Dr Mark Fletcher who is stepping down after three years in the post. Slessor is a highly regarded leader in the UK water industry, bringing extensive sector experience spanning 25 years in engineering, digital construction approaches, and strategic leadership.

He is currently CEO of UK water technology company RSE which specialises in modular solutions for sustainable water and wastewater treatment to deliver both flexibility and cost savings for its clients. He has held the position since January 2024 during which the company has continued a considerable period of growth along with expansion initiatives across the UK and internationally.

Coming at a critical time for the industry, Slessor’s appointment aligns with British Water’s vision for a world-leading and outcome-focused water and wastewater sector as it supports the work of British Water’s members through its various forums.

Commenting on his appointment, Slessor said:

“I’m humbled to step into the role as chair of British Water as our sector steps up to meet the next few decades’ most pressing challenges, whether that be related to climate, regulatory changes, or skills necessary skills development.

“The input and innovation of our growing membership are more critical than ever in delivering a more sustainable and resilient UK water ecosystem, and I will endeavour to champion the vital work they do at every turn.”

Previously, Slessor had a 17-year career at Galliford Try (GT), working his way from a quantity surveyor to managing director for the business where he led the merger of GT water with NMCN PLC in 2021, creating the largest contractor to the UK water sector.

He has also served as a non-executive director for British Water, in addition to roles on the advisory board of the Scottish Futures Trust and as president of the Chartered Institute of Civil Engineering Surveyors.

"We are delighted to welcome Stephen Slessor as Chair of British Water. Stephen brings deep industry expertise and a forward-thinking approach at a time when our sector is undergoing significant transformation. His passion for innovation and commitment to collaboration align strongly with British Water’s mission to support a sustainable and high-performing water sector. I look forward to working with him as we continue to champion the voice of the supply chain and drive meaningful change across the industry," Lila Thompson, British Water CEO said.

British Water’s new UK Forum Chair Evangelos Petropoulos is a Consultant and Technical & Regional Leader (Process Engineering) at Stantec Ltd, leading AMP7 and AMP8 projects from concept through to construction.

His work spans both traditional infrastructure and nature-based solutions such as wetlands. He is actively involved in academic collaborations in the UK and internationally, staying current with developments in water and wastewater engineering. His interests include micropollutants, Anti-Microbial Resistance, PFAS fatea nd rare earth elements for treatment.

A former Convenor of the British Water Wastewater Treatment Plant Focus Group (2020–2024), Evangelos has contributed to key industry publications and regulatory discussions.

With over 15 years' experience across consultancy, manufacturing, and academia, he will now serve as Chair of the UK Forum, promoting collaboration across the sector to drive innovation and environmental progress.

“I would like to express my gratitude to all who supported me with their votes, as well as to those who did not, as this motivates me to demonstrate my commitment to this post. In this key role on the British Water Board, I will be dedicated to diligently addressing the needs of our members, with a focus on the sustainable delivery of clean water to enhance public health and ensure the state’s well-being.“ Evangelos Petropoulos, UK Forum Chair