Former Water UK policy expert awarded OBE in Queen’s Birthday Honours list

Former Water UK Senior Policy Expert Dr Jim Marshall has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the water sector.

Jim, who recently left Water UK after 14 years to take up a new role at Southern Water, receives the honour for his work coordinating the industry’s response to Covid-19.

His role was instrumental in bringing the industry together, working collaboratively to ensure the continued delivery of clean, safe and reliable water supplies, despite all the challenges posed by the pandemic.

The sector’s response received praise from Water Minister Rebecca Pow MP who, in a letter, thanked the industry for the “extraordinary effort you have all shown to keep our vital services running.”

Jim will receive his honour as part of the delayed Queen’s Birthday Honours list which seeks to reward ‘everyday Covid heroes’ who helped the country deal with the pandemic.

Commenting on his honour Dr Jim Marshall said:

“I am truly humbled to receive this honour. It is a testament to the tireless work of many in the industry to minimise the impact of Covid-19 on the provision of water and wastewater services.

“I am grateful for the advice and sheer hard work of colleagues from a whole range of disciplines and business functions. Together we put in place the process, procedures and monitoring needed to track and minimise the impact of Covid-19.

“The work we did, not only sets the sector up to manage pandemics, but ensures companies can continue to provide a vital service while also supporting their customers and communities during this challenging time.”

Christine McGourty, Water UK Chief Executive, said:

“Huge congratulations to Jim for this very well-deserved honour. We’re all thrilled to see him recognised in this way for his hard work and dedication this year and throughout his time at Water UK.

“This honour stands as a tribute also to all the key workers in the water sector who have worked so hard this year to ensure continued operation of this essential service, which so many people and critical sectors depend on.”

Jim is not the only person from the water industry to be recognised. Water UK would like to congratulate to Liv Garfield, Severn Trent Chief Executive, Richard Flint, former Yorkshire Water Chief Executive, and Chris Jones, former Welsh Water Chief Executive, who have all become Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

Liv has been recognised for services to the water industry while Richard has been honoured for services to the water industry and environment. Chris has received his CBE in recognition of his service to the water industry in England and Wales.