Global leader in water quality intelligence strengthens its leadership team

Kohtari, who are working with an increasing number of water companies and regulators to safeguard water quality, has appointed Lord St John of Bletso as Strategic Adviser.

In a move designed to support the company’s international growth, strategic partnerships and governance as it scales its water intelligence platforms, Lord St John brings significant experience across international markets, governance and public policy.

A long-standing Crossbench member of the House of Lords, Lord St John has contributed to Select Committee work on artificial intelligence, communications and digital policy, alongside wider international affairs. He qualified as an attorney in South Africa and has held board and advisory roles across listed and private technology-led companies. He has worked extensively across Africa and other emerging markets, supporting growth, governance and international expansion.

His appointment comes at an important moment for Kohtari and for the wider water sector, as the company seeks to expand its solutions globally that turn complex data into clear, actionable intelligence.

James Sumsion, CEO of Kohtari, said: “Lord St John brings an exceptional combination of international perspective, governance expertise and commercial judgement. His experience across global markets, technology, policy insight and board leadership will be invaluable as Kohtari moves into its next phase of growth.

“This is a significant appointment for us. We are building a mission-driven company to transform how the world sees and safeguards its waters, ensuring that they are digitally visible, understood and protected. Lord St John’s insight and network will help us do that with greater reach, credibility and impact.”

As pressures on water systems intensify, there is growing demand for better visibility, earlier warning and more joined-up intelligence across rivers, reservoirs and coastal environments.

Kohtari is helping to meet that need by bringing together AI, robotics and environmental data to improve how water quality is understood, monitored and managed.

From predicting algal bloom risk in reservoirs to advancing coastal water quality intelligence, Kohtari’s ambition is to make every significant water body digitally visible. This will support more resilient ecosystems, healthier communities and a more transparent, accountable water sector. 

As the company expands its reach in the UK and internationally, Lord St John will support Kohtari in building strategic relationships, strengthening governance and opening pathways for growth in key markets.

Lord St John of Bletso added: “Kohtari is addressing a challenge of growing global importance: how we better understand, anticipate and protect our water environments through predictive technology. Its combination of AI, robotics and data-driven insight has the potential to vastly improve the way water quality is monitored and managed, particularly where visibility has historically been limited. I am excited to be supporting the team as it builds strategic partnerships and expands into international markets.”