Aqua America Appoints Christopher Franklin As CEO, Effective July 1

(RTTNews) - Aqua America, Inc. (WTR) announced the appointment of Christopher Franklin as chief executive officer or CEO. Franklin will succeed current Chief Executive Officer Nicholas DeBenedictis effective July 1, 2015.

Commenting on Franklin, the company said he has held positions of increased responsibility in various areas of the company throughout his tenure, most recently as president and chief operating officer, regulated operations.

Before joining Aqua America, Franklin worked at PECO Energy Company, where he was regional, civic and economic development officer, responsible for the review, recommendation and promotion of economic development initiatives in the Philadelphia region, the company noted.

DeBenedictis will serve as senior advisor to Franklin for up to three months beginning July 1 to ensure a smooth transition of duties. DeBenedictis will then become non-executive chairman of the Board.

DeBenedictis said he will assist with the company's strategic growth and public policy initiatives.