Leadership Shift at Fluence: What Pokorsky’s Retirement Means for Growth
Fluence Corporation has announced Ben Fash as its new CEO and Managing Director, succeeding Tom Pokorsky who will retire after a distinguished career. The transition marks a strategic leadership shift aimed at driving future growth.
- Ben Fash appointed CEO and Managing Director effective by December 30, 2025
- Current CEO Tom Pokorsky to retire but remain as advisor during transition
- Fash brings over 20 years of water industry and capital markets experience
- Shareholder approval sought for Fash’s remuneration and equity package at October EGM
- Company initiates search for new Chief Financial Officer
Leadership Transition at Fluence
Fluence Corporation Limited (ASX – FLC), a prominent player in wastewater treatment and reuse technologies, has announced a significant leadership change. Benjamin Fash, currently the company’s Chief Financial Officer, will step into the role of Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director on or before December 30, 2025. This appointment follows the planned retirement of Tom Pokorsky, who has led the company through a transformative period and will continue to support Fluence in an advisory capacity during the transition.
A Strategic Choice with Deep Industry Roots
Mr. Fash’s elevation to CEO is a natural progression, reflecting his extensive experience in the water sector and capital markets. With over 20 years in the industry, including more than a decade in CFO roles and a background in investment banking and private equity, Fash has been instrumental in Fluence’s recent strategic turnaround. His tenure as CFO since 2023 has seen him deeply involved in repositioning the company for sustainable growth and profitability.
Governance and Remuneration Details
The company has outlined the terms of Fash’s executive employment agreement, which includes a base salary of approximately USD 450,000 and eligibility for an annual bonus of up to 33% of that salary. Notably, Fash will receive 32 million options with a vesting schedule tied to his tenure, aligning his incentives with long-term shareholder value. Shareholder approval for these remuneration components will be sought at an extraordinary general meeting scheduled for October, underscoring Fluence’s commitment to transparent governance.
Looking Ahead – New CFO and Future Growth
With Fash’s move to CEO, Fluence has commenced a search for a new Chief Financial Officer, signaling further executive reshuffling. The board, led by Chairman Doug Brown, expressed confidence that Fash will build on the solid foundation laid by Pokorsky, steering Fluence toward enhanced growth and profitability. The leadership transition comes at a pivotal time as Fluence continues to expand its footprint in high-growth markets such as North America and Southeast Asia.
Legacy and Continuity
Tom Pokorsky’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable 50-year career, with his legacy firmly embedded in Fluence’s evolution. His willingness to remain involved during the transition period offers reassurance to investors and stakeholders that the company’s strategic momentum will be maintained. As Fluence navigates this leadership change, the market will be watching closely to see how the new CEO’s vision translates into operational and financial performance.
Bottom Line?
Fluence’s leadership handover sets the stage for a new growth chapter, but the market will watch closely for how the transition impacts execution.
Questions in the middle?
- Who will be appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer following Fash’s promotion?
- How will Fash’s strategic priorities differ from Pokorsky’s approach?
- What impact will the equity option package have on shareholder value and executive incentives?
