Thames Water CFO Resigns During Critical Restructuring Efforts

Alastair Cochran's departure comes as the utility battles £16 billion in debt, seeks £5 billion in equity investment, and faces operational and regulatory challenges.

Alastair Cochran, Thames Water's CFO, has stepped down after three and a half years, leaving during a key phase of the company's financial restructuring.
The utility recently secured court approval for a £3 billion loan to stabilize operations through 2026 but still seeks £5 billion in equity investment after previous shareholders exited.
Thames Water is grappling with £16 billion in debt and ongoing operational failures, including poor pollution control, mains leakage, and customer service performance.
The company is at odds with Ofwat over proposed household bill increases, with the regulator reducing Thames Water's requested 53% hike to 35% over five years.
Stuart Thom, currently Director of Group Finance, will serve as interim CFO as government monitoring for potential special administration continues.