Driving Change: TasWater Restructures Tech Delivery for Transformation

TasWater is embarking on a significant technology transformation aimed at modernizing its core IT systems and driving innovation throughout the organization. As part of this initiative, the Tasmanian water and sewerage utility has introduced the role of Chief Digital Officer (CDO) to lead its digital and technology strategic roadmap. This appointment follows a leadership realignment intended to emphasize the importance of digital solutions in supporting TasWater’s long-term strategy.

Chief Financial Officer Kane Ingham explained that the creation of the CDO role reflects the growing need for digital transformation within the utility. “We have realigned and refocused an existing role to create the position of Chief Digital Officer at TasWater,” Ingham told iTnews. “This realignment highlights the critical role digital solutions will play in enabling TasWater’s new strategy.” The CDO will spearhead a comprehensive digital change program that involves upgrading and replacing core IT systems, harnessing new technologies, and driving innovation across all areas of the business.

The CDO will oversee a team of 65 digital and technology professionals who will report directly to the CFO. Their mandate includes ensuring the digital transformation program aligns with TasWater’s strategic objectives and supports the organization’s aspiration to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. The new role underscores TasWater’s commitment to evolving into a more digitally agile organization.

According to the official job advertisement, the CDO will be tasked with developing and executing strategic IT and digital priorities that are future-oriented and customer-centric. The CDO will also be responsible for aligning these strategies with TasWater’s broader operational goals, ensuring that the utility remains competitive and responsive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

In addition to its internal digital transformation efforts, TasWater is also a key player in a consortium that includes TasPorts, TasNetworks, TasIrrigation, and the Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone. This consortium is collaborating on the development of a green hydrogen hub at Bell Bay. The Tasmanian government formally launched the project earlier this year after securing $70 million in federal funding to support the initiative. The hydrogen hub is a cornerstone of Tasmania’s broader push towards sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing, further underscoring TasWater’s role in driving technological innovation both internally and within the wider community.

By establishing the Chief Digital Officer (CDO) position, TasWater is positioning itself as a leader in technological innovation and transformation. This move signals a commitment not only to modernizing its core IT infrastructure but also to playing a crucial role in advancing Tasmania’s broader technological and industrial landscape. The CDO will lead efforts to integrate cutting-edge technologies, streamline operations, and drive digital innovation, ensuring TasWater remains agile and competitive in an evolving industry.

This strategic shift will allow TasWater to harness emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and advanced automation, which are expected to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. By embedding digital solutions into its business model, TasWater aims to improve customer experiences, providing more responsive, transparent, and accessible services. These advancements are critical as the utility strives to meet the evolving needs of its customers and stakeholders.

Furthermore, TasWater’s active participation in the development of the Bell Bay green hydrogen hub, alongside other key Tasmanian enterprises, underscores its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The hydrogen hub initiative, supported by $70 million in federal funding, positions Tasmania as a leader in renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. Through this collaboration, TasWater is contributing to the state’s ambitious sustainability goals, aligning its digital transformation with broader environmental objectives.

Ultimately, the creation of the CDO role reflects TasWater’s vision of becoming a digitally driven organization that not only delivers essential services but also plays a transformative role in shaping Tasmania’s future. This strategic move is poised to drive long-term growth, innovation, and sustainability, reinforcing TasWater’s position as a key enabler of the state’s economic and technological progress.