American Water Shares Post-Merger Leadership Updates with Essential Utilities

Overview

On November 4, 2026, American Water Works Company, Inc. filed a Form 425 communication regarding its pending merger with Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG). The filing contains an internal email communication sent by American Water President and CEO John Griffith to employees regarding the confirmation of roles in the post-merger organization.

Key Highlights

• Organizational Confirmations: Teams have determined decisions for the final phase of organizational integration to be enacted following the merger close.
• Leadership Transitions:
  • Indiana: Barry Suits, President of Indiana American Water, will retire effective April 1, 2027. Natalie Chesko, currently President of Aqua New Jersey, will transition to President of American Water's Indiana operations upon close.
  • Illinois: Sadzi Oliva, currently President of Aqua Indiana, will move into a leadership role heading communications and external affairs for Illinois.
  • Iowa: Ben Keith, currently Director of Business Development and Government Affairs in Iowa, will become President of American Water's Iowa operations upon close.
• Title Harmonization: Essential Utilities employee titles transferring into the combined entity will be harmonized with American Water's job architecture over the initial months following completion.

Market & Trading Impact

This filing reflects ongoing standard integration planning and workforce communication ahead of closing. Because it does not alter transaction terms, timing expectations, or financial consideration, the immediate trading impact is expected to be minimal.