Hydro Tasmania has announced the appointment of Rachel Watson as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for the organization.
Currently the Country Manager for global renewable developer OX2, Watson brings extensive experience in hydro, solar, and wind power, along with a strong background in infrastructure development, retail, finance, and legal sectors. She previously served as CEO of Pacific Hydro Australia and Chair of the Clean Energy Council and was recently recognized in The Australian’s list of 100 Green Power Players.
Hydro Tasmania Chair Richard Bolt highlighted Ms. Watson’s qualifications, stating: “Rachel is known in the energy industry as a dynamic and passionate leader with a strong focus on the commercial and cultural aspects of business. She has the breadth and depth of experience to lead the sophisticated and complex operations of Hydro Tasmania, enable the growth of renewables and industrial load, and firm Tasmania’s power from upgraded and new hydropower and pumped storage stations.”
The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process. Ms. Watson will be the first woman to hold the substantive CEO role at Hydro Tasmania.
Bolt emphasized the importance of Ms. Watson’s leadership during a pivotal period of transformation for the organization. “Rachel will lead Hydro Tasmania through one of its most important periods of change. I am very pleased that a leader of her talent and integrity has chosen to join us,” he said.
Watson expressed enthusiasm for the role and her upcoming relocation to Tasmania. “I am honoured and delighted to take up this role,” she said. “There are very exciting opportunities and challenges ahead, and I am really looking forward to working on Hydro Tasmania’s ambitious agenda, together with the Hydro Tasmania team.”
Erin van Maanen, Hydro Tasmania’s Executive General Manager, Strategy, has been serving as Acting CEO since Ian Brooksbank’s retirement in October. She will continue in the interim role until Watson officially begins on 14 April 2025.
