Gippsland Water appoints two new executives to its leadership team

Gippsland Water has announced two new appointments to its executive leadership team: Chris Wood as General Manager Operations and Melissa Thek as General Manager Business Transformation.

Gippsland Water Managing Director Sarah Cumming said the new-look executive leadership team would lead the organisation towards its vision of a healthy and sustainable Gippsland for generations to come.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa and Chris, who recently began in their roles. Each brings valuable ideas, perspectives and skills gained from decades of experience to our team,” Ms Cumming said.

As general manager business transformation, Ms Thek will be responsible for leading the organisation’s strategy, innovation and technology agendas.

“Melissa has a proven track record delivering major IT digital and legislative changes on a national scale.

“This, in addition to her strong leadership capability, makes her well-positioned to lead and deliver our transformational change and digital vision.”

Ms Thek has 20 years’ experience in government, client services and commercial environments, and holds a bachelor of business and a master’s degree in project management.

Along with managing director Sarah Cumming and chief financial officer Sarah Heath, Ms Thek’s appointment highlights the organisation’s strong female contingent in pivotal leadership roles.

Mr Wood will head up the operations division, with overall responsibility for water quality and catchments, wastewater treatment facilities, bulk water storage and supply, bulk wastewater treatment and disposal, urban drinking water distribution and the urban sewer collection network.

“Chris previously managed our water treatment and catchment for 10 years and has more recently acted in several general manager positions,” Ms Cumming said.