A previous CEO of the Australian Water Association has been elected as the next president of the International Water Association (IWA).
Tom Mollenkopf will take office at the end of the IWA World Water Congress in Copenhagen in October 2020.
Mollenkopf will be familiar to many in the Australian water sector. He began his career in law but has spent the past 25 years in the water industry, working across infrastructure, regulation, policy and governance.
He is currently CEO of the Peter Cullen Water and Environment Trust and a Senior Associate with consultancy firm Aither. He has also served as IWA Senior Vice President and Executive General Manager at South East Water in Melbourne.
Mollenkopf said he is looking forward to helping grow the IWA’s impact and reach.
“I am passionate about the water sector and its role in the health, economic, environmental and social well-being of humanity,” Mollenkopf said.
“I know that water sector professionals understand the magnitude of the global water challenge and that we are in a unique position to offer solutions.”
In a statement, the IWA said Mollenkopf’s election as president was a tribute to his engagement in the Australian and international water sector during his career.
“It is also a strong recognition of his commitment to ensuring a water-wise and water-just world, where water is sustainably managed for all human and environmental needs,” the IWA said.
“Tom’s appointment highlights the IWA’s desire to bring all stakeholders from around the globe together to work on our water future, to make a difference.”
Mollenkopf will take over the role of president from Diane d’Arras, who has served two terms.