David Black to succeed Chris Hemsley as UKRN CEO
UKRN is pleased to announce our new CEO as David Black, current Chief Executive of Ofwat who formally succeeds Chris Hemsley who stepped down in June 2024 .
The UK Regulators Network (UKRN) brings together regulators to collaborate to improve outcomes for consumers and the economy. Our member regulators cover a wide range of sectors and issues, including transport, utilities, communications, housing and financial services.
David Black was appointed as Chief Executive of Ofwat in April 2022. He has worked at Ofwat for 12 years, before becoming Chief Executive he was Chief Regulation Officer at Ofwat and led the 2019 price review. David joined Ofwat in 2012 as Director of Economics and became a Senior Director in 2015. David has held a number of roles in economic consulting, advising on economic regulation, competition and financial economics in the communications and energy sectors. He has also worked at Oftel, New Zealand Treasury and New Zealand Commerce Commission.
The UKRN CEO is rotated amongst our regulatory members and, on their behalf, provides oversight, advice and leadership to the work of the UKRN. David will start his role from the 1st of September 2024.
Attricia Archer, UKRN Director said: “The UKRN team and I are thrilled to announce that David Black, Chief Executive of Ofwat has accepted the position of UKRN CEO. With a new government, this is a critical time for regulation, and David brings extensive experience and guidance to our expansive network. I very much look forward to working with and welcoming David and his colleagues into the UKRN team.”
David Black, Chief Executive at Ofwat and incoming CEO to UKRN, said:
“The UK’s regulated sectors must navigate a number of challenges over the next few years, including attracting investment at a fair price for customers to deliver large-scale infrastructure improvements. Continuing to share expertise and ideas across our membership organisations will play an important role in driving innovation and will help to secure the best outcomes for both customers and the UK. I am eager to continue the impressive work of UKRN through stronger collaboration.”