South Staffordshire Plc has appointed Joanna Smith as Group CFO, following Rob O’Malley’s decision to step down from the role in April 2025.
Joanna Smith joined the Group in September 2024 as Finance Director for Group regulated businesses Cambridge and South Staffs Water. She is a vastly experienced leader with deep financial expertise, having overseen finance operations and major projects within a variety of sectors, with close connection to South Staffordshire Plc’s sectors of operation and overall purpose. Joanna will assume her new role in April 2025 and in the meantime will continue to oversee the water companies until a suitable successor is appointed.
Charley Maher, Group CEO at South Staffordshire Plc, said:
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Rob for his dedicated service and contribution to the development of the Group over the past five years, and to wish him well as he pursues new opportunities. Since Joanna joined us last year, she has already made a significant impact within our regulated water business, and I am very much looking forward to working with her on this new opportunity to support the wider Group. Strong financial performance is a clear priority for the coming years, and Joanna will be vital in strengthening our governance and performance and in supporting our future ambitions.”
Joanna Smith added:
“I’m delighted to be joining Charley and the board at an exciting time (a pivotal time) for the business, and I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to support the board to further strengthen the Group’s financial position and continue to deliver value to our people, customers and investors.”
