Thames Water chief executive quits after giving up bonus over sewage spills

The leader of Thames Water has resigned without delay after being compelled to forego her extra pay because of the corporation's unfavorable environmental impact.

The corporation announced that Sarah Bentley would step down from the board on Tuesday, but she will still assist her temporary successor until they discover a permanent CEO.

Ms Bentley, who took on the role in the year 2020, announced in the month of May that she would forgo her bonus due to the company's poor environmental and customer performance.

Despite forfeiting the bonus, the CEO was able to increase her earnings by two-fold, earning a total of £1.5 million.

Gary Carter, who is a national officer in the GMB union, stated that Ms. Bentley's intention to forgo the bonus was simply a weak public relations move.

The insignia of Thames Water, a company that deals with water supply, can be spotted through a drinking glass filled with water.

The company never revealed the size of the bonus that the 51-year-old would have received since she turned it down. However, her previous performance-related pay was £496,000 in the previous year.

The interim co-chief executive will be Alastair Cochran, who previously held the role as chief finance officer. It should also be noted that he voluntarily decided to relinquish his bonus.

From now on, he will be co-leading Thames Water alongside Cathryn Ross, a previous CEO of Ofwat who recently became a part of the company this year.

Chairman Ian Marchant expressed his gratitude on Tuesday towards Sarah for her outstanding contributions to the company since she became a part of it in 2020. She has succeeded in assembling an exceptional executive team and initiating phase one of the company's revival.

Thames' board sends its well-wishes for success in the future on behalf of all its members.

According to Ms Bentley, it was a great privilege and honor to have undertaken a significant task, as well as an opportunity to work with the committed and inspiring staff members of Thames Water.

We have established a strong basis for the company's transformation, allowing us to enhance our customer service and environmental sustainability for long-term prosperity.

I hope all those who participated in the improvement process have the utmost success.

Tim Farron, who is responsible for the environment in the Liberal Democrat party, stated that the company, which has been involved in various scandals, must face a turning point.

Thames Water is in a state of utter disorder and it's high time government officials intervene to revamp the company entirely.

We need to stop prioritizing profit above the environment.