Watercare names Anna Shipley as new Corporate Affairs Chief

Watercare has appointed corporate affairs leader Anna Shipley as its new Chief Corporate Affairs Officer.

Anna will join Watercare on 16 November 2026, bringing extensive experience across strategic communications, government and stakeholder relations, brand and reputation.

Her career includes previous senior leadership roles as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at SkyCity Entertainment Group, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at The Warehouse Group and General Manager Corporate Affairs at BNZ.

She has also held senior international roles with Nokia, including Director of Communications for China and Asia Pacific, based in Beijing, and leading communications for its UK business from London.

Watercare Chief Executive Jamie Sinclair says Anna’s experience will be particularly valuable as Watercare enters a new phase shaped by economic regulation, long-term investment and the choices needed to support Auckland’s future.

“Corporate Affairs has an important role to play in connecting our strategy and delivery with our customers, communities, regulators and stakeholders, and we are looking forward to having Anna lead the team as we deliver our investment programme for Auckland.”

Anna says she is looking forward to stepping into the role.

“Watercare plays a vital role in the everyday lives of Aucklanders and our city and I’m looking forward to being part of the Watercare team.