Thames Water chief executive Sarah Bentley has announced she is quitting her job with immediate effect after three years in the role.
The UK’s largest water supplier confirmed her departure on Tuesday afternoon and said she will support her interim replacements in the short term.
In May it was reported that Ms Bentley would be one of three water companies to forego their bonuses in an acknowledgment of the public anger over companies’ dumping of sewage in Britain’s rivers.
But even after giving up the bonus, the chief executive managed to double her pay, raking in £1.5 million.
Commenting on her sudden exit, Ms Bentley said: “It has been an honour to take on such a significant challenge and a privilege to serve Thames Water’s dedicated and inspirational colleagues.
“The foundations of the turnaround that we have laid position the company for future success to improve service for customers and environmental performance. I wish everyone involved in the turnaround the very best.”
Chairman of the firm Ian Marchant said: “I want to thank Sarah for everything she has done since joining the company in 2020, building a first-class executive team and leading the first phase of the turnaround of the company.
“On behalf of everyone at Thames, the board wishes her every success for the future.”
