Cathryn Ross, chief executive of Britain’s water regulator, Ofwat, will be leaving at the end of 2017 to take up a senior position in the private sector that is totally unconnected to the industry.

Ross is praised as ‘transformational leader’ after having led Ofwat through 2014 price review – Jonson Cox, Ofwat’s chairman, described her as a “transformational leader for Ofwat and the sector”:

“As chief executive she has created a dynamic and leading-edge regulator, effective in driving change across the water sector and putting customers first. We are sorry to see her go and wish her every success in her new role.”

Ofwat has started looking for a replacement for Ross, who took the helm in October 2013 – she led the regulator through a review of sector prices in 2014 and the opening of a new business retail market in England. Ofwat said it was her decision to leave so she would not be getting a payoff.

Under Ofwat proposals published in September 2016, households would be able to choose their water supplier for the first time, which, according to Ofwat, could cut household water bills as well as improve services. The government is yet to

Ross said: “After four fantastic years, I know I will be leaving Ofwat in good shape. Our regulatory approach is now well established and we have a strong team in place. We are set up to regulate the world’s largest competitive water retail market, and we are ready for a demanding price review, which will deliver more of what matters for customers.”

Before she leaves, Ross will finalise the methodology for the 2019 price review, the framework for the price and service packages water companies must deliver for their customers for the 2020-25 period.

Ross has reportedly been appointed by BT to head its regulatory affairs operation. She will be joining the firm at a critical time as the telecoms firm has had a bad year, marked by an accounting scandal in Italy and a record £42m fine from Ofcom for overcharging for broadband access in the UK – BT is also in the middle of a shake-up at the top and Ross is expected to take on regulatory responsibilities previously held by Sean Williams, the chief strategy officer, who is leaving.

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