UK Government appoints three powerful new board members to Consumer Council for Water in England and Wales to reshape consumer protection and accountability

A new chapter has begun for the Consumer Council for Water as three independent board members are brought in to help shape how water and sewerage services are represented across England and Wales.

Two of the appointees, Alison Austin and Hilary Florek, officially started their roles on April 1, 2026, each set to serve a three-year term.

Meanwhile, Peter Judge will join the board later in the year, with his tenure beginning on November 1, 2026.

These appointments follow strict procedures outlined in the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments, ensuring selections are based purely on merit without political influence.

What the Council Does

The Consumer Council for Water plays a crucial role as the independent voice for water consumers.

It handles complaints, offers guidance, and ensures customers across England and Wales are properly represented in decisions affecting water services.

Operating as an executive non-departmental public body, it is sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, often referred to as Defra.

Alison Austin Brings Sustainability Expertise

Alison Austin joins the board with decades of experience bridging consumer interests and sustainability.

Her career includes 25 years at Sainsbury’s, where she worked across marketing, food technology, and sustainability.

Since leaving the retail giant, she has focused on environmental and governance strategies through her consultancy work.

She has also held roles with organizations like Seafish and WRAP, contributing to areas such as food waste reduction and circular economy initiatives.

Her recent experience includes serving on the Food Standards Agency board, where she represented consumer interests before stepping down in late 2025.

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Hilary Florek Adds Communications and Leadership Strength

Hilary Florek enters the board with a strong background in communications, governance, and public service leadership.

She previously chaired the Marine Management Organisation from 2018 to 2024.

Her portfolio also includes leadership roles at regional development and financial access bodies, alongside involvement in education and community initiatives such as Newcastle University and the Durham County Cricket Foundation.

Florek began her career in corporate communications before launching her own consultancy, bringing a blend of private and public sector expertise to the council.

Peter Judge to Join Later in the Year

Peter Judge will take up his position in November, adding legal and governance depth to the board.

His early career as a corporate lawyer evolved into senior leadership roles, including at One North East, where he focused on efficiency and public resource management.

He has also served as Attorney General for British Overseas Territories, including the Falkland Islands, handling legal systems, regulation, and international cooperation agreements.

Currently, he chairs the South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute and holds governance roles at Northumbria University.

His contributions to economic development earned him an MBE in 2012.

Impact and Consequences

These appointments are expected to strengthen the council’s ability to advocate for consumers at a time when water services face increasing scrutiny over pricing, sustainability, and service quality.

With Austin’s sustainability background, Florek’s communications expertise, and Judge’s governance experience, the board gains a well-rounded leadership mix.

This could lead to more effective handling of complaints, improved transparency, and stronger engagement with both regulators and the public.

What’s Next?

The new board members will begin contributing immediately to strategic decisions, policy input, and oversight of consumer issues.

Attention will likely focus on ongoing challenges such as environmental standards, water affordability, and infrastructure improvements.

Stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the refreshed board influences policy direction and consumer protection efforts.

Summary

Three experienced professionals have been appointed to the Consumer Council for Water board, each bringing distinct expertise in sustainability, communications, and governance.

Their appointments aim to enhance the council’s role as a strong advocate for water consumers across England and Wales.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Alison Austin and Hilary Florek have begun their three-year terms as of April 1, 2026
• Peter Judge will join the board later, starting November 1, 2026
• Appointments were made under strict merit-based rules set by the Cabinet Office
• The Consumer Council for Water represents and protects water consumers across England and Wales
• New board members bring expertise in sustainability, communications, and legal governance
• The appointments are expected to strengthen consumer advocacy and oversight in the water sector