Yorkshire Water boss steps down after Environment Agency gives utilities firm lowest possible rating
“It has been a privilege to lead Yorkshire Water and serve the people of Yorkshire”
Yorkshire Water CEO Nicola Shaw has stepped down just one day after the utilities firm was given the lowest possible rating by environmental regulators.
On Thursday, October 29, the Environment Agency announced that Yorkshire Water would now be rated one star out of four after 70 per cent rise in pollution incidents in the past year.
The company was previously rated two stars in 2024.
Following the rating Ms Shaw, who held her position for four and a half years, announced that she will be stepping down from January 1.
She will be replaced by Nicola Medalova, who has been appointed as CEO designate and will join the company on November 2 before fully taking over in the new year.
“It has been a privilege to lead Yorkshire Water and serve the people of Yorkshire,” Ms Shaw said.
“Although there remains a huge amount of work to do, I am extremely proud of what our colleagues have achieved, putting the business on a stronger footing for delivery across all aspects of its work.
“These jobs are challenging but fulfilling and I am especially grateful for the dedication and commitment of colleagues at all levels throughout the business across this county - thank you all.
“This now feels like the right time to begin an orderly transition to the company’s next chapter. I know Nicola Medalova will do an outstanding job leading the company and I look forward to working closely with her over the coming months to ensure a seamless handover.”
Due to the company’s newly-announced poor rating, it will automatically be blocked from giving out bonuses to bosses under rules introduced last year.
Ms Medalova, who previously worked at National Grid, said: “I am delighted to be joining Yorkshire Water and grateful to the board for the opportunity to lead the business through its next chapter.
“Yorkshire Water faces huge challenges but also great opportunities for continued improvement and I look forward to working with Nicola Shaw, the leadership team and colleagues across the business as I get up to speed.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know Yorkshire Water, its people and the communities it serves. My immediate priority will be to listen and learn, while maintaining a relentless focus on delivery.
“Yorkshire Water will ultimately be judged by what it delivers for customers, communities and the environment, and I’m excited about the opportunity to help shape its future.”