EdenServ appoints new independent Board ahead of service launch

EdenServ has appointed its new independent Board as the company prepares to take responsibility for recycling, waste and environmental services across East Devon in September 2026.

The new Board will be chaired by Graham Farrant, former Chief Executive of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council and HM Land Registry. He is joined by Non-Executive Directors Paul Cooper, Bevis Watts, Dave Ward and Cath James, whose combined expertise spans finance, governance, sustainability, organisational transformation, operational delivery and environmental services.

Following a national recruitment process, the Board will provide experienced oversight to support safe mobilisation, reliable services and effective local accountability.

EdenServ has thanked outgoing East Devon District Council-appointed Directors Catrin Stark and John Symes for their leadership and support during the company's establishment phase. Both have played an important role in guiding the organisation through incorporation, mobilisation and governance development ahead of service commencement.

James Carpenter, Managing Director of EdenServ, said: "The appointment of our new Board is an important milestone for EdenServ. We have brought together a highly experienced group of leaders who will provide support, challenge and oversight as we prepare to deliver services for residents across East Devon from September.

"Our focus is on delivering excellent recycling, waste and environmental services from day one, while building a strong organisation for the future.

"The Board brings expertise from across public service, environmental services, sustainability, governance and operational leadership.

"Together, we will help establish EdenServ as an innovative environmental services company that delivers reliable services, supports environmental improvement and creates lasting value for communities, customers and future partners across Devon and the South West."

EdenServ has been established to provide high-quality local environmental services that build public confidence, improve environmental outcomes and strengthen accountable local delivery.

Alongside service delivery, EdenServ aims to create wider social value through local jobs, skills, environmental improvement and stronger community outcomes. The company wants its work to benefit residents and communities not only through reliable services, but through the positive impact it can make locally.

Photo: Front row (L-R): Dave Ward, Graham Farrant, Cath James. Back row (L-R): Paul Cooper, James Carpenter, Bevis Watts.