Ambition and Direction: Leading a Transformation Journey with George Theo, TasWater

In this episode of the Exec Exchange podcast, host Piers Clark speaks with George Theo, CEO of TasWater, in the third of three conversations about TasWater’s journey toward breakthrough performance. George shares his background in the water sector and outlines TasWater’s scale and challenges, including widespread sewerage treatment non-compliance and decades of underinvestment. He explains why leadership requires being open about reality, setting bold ambitions, and accepting criticism while focusing on delivering better outcomes for customers, the environment, and future generations. George describes building alignment, encouraging vulnerability, learning from mistakes, and collaborating across teams to drive step-change improvement.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:25 George and TasWater Snapshot02:13 Bold Ambition and Reality Check04:16 Alignment and Leadership Standards05:53 Learning Culture and Innovation07:40 Defining Breakthrough Performance10:05 Advice for New Water CEOs12:18 Personal Question and WrapAll information is correct as of the recording in May 2026.