United Utilities Group PLC (LSE:UU.) has announced that Louise Beardmore will take over as chief executive after the retirement of Steve Mogford early next year.
This would make her the ninth CEO of a FTSE 100 company based on current numbers.
Mogford, who has been in charge of the water company for 12 years, will be supported by Beardmore, who is currently the group's customer service and people director, until he steps down.
Beardmore will join the PLC and water subsidiary boards as CEO designate on 1 May and will lead the creation of the company's PR24 business plan, covering the next five-year regulatory period.
“We're acutely aware of the important role we play within our North West community and Louise embodies all of the values to which we aspire,” said Mogford.
“With her boundless energy and commitment, I have no doubt she will lead United Utilities to even greater success".
The company said Beardmore has worked in both regulated and non-regulated environments in the UK and internationally, highlighting in particular her “wealth of knowledge and leadership capability, a strong customer, people and community focus and a track record of delivering outstanding results”.
Chair David Higgins said: "Louise has been at the heart of the company's transition to becoming a leading performer in customer service, operational delivery and employee engagement. She was the outstanding candidate in a rigorous selection process including internal and external candidates.”