Richard Aylard

Richard Aylard "joined Thames Water in 2002 and has been External Affairs and Sustainability Director since October 2004. He reports to the Chief Executive and is a member of the Executive Management Team (EMT). The role draws together the communications functions (internal and external communications and stakeholder engagement) with Corporate Responsibility and Conservation, Access and Recreation.

"Richard also has a formal role as the champion for environmental and sustainability issues on the EMT. He leads the company's engagement with external stakeholders and is the principal spokesperson with the media and other audiences. He also has personal responsibility for the company's proposed Upper Thames reservoir project.

"Richard's previous employment includes 16 years in the Royal Navy, 11 years as a Private Secretary to HRH The Prince of Wales and 6 years advising a wide range of companies on managing and communicating environmental issues. He has a degree in Applied Zoology from the University of Reading, and is an Honorary Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management."

• Former Ambassador, WWF-UK