Executive Director, Electric Utility Operations

Blue Signal Search; Naperville (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Signal Search seeks an accomplished electric utility leader to oversee a critical infrastructure operation in Naperville, IL. This executive role shapes long-term strategy, directs major investments, and leads a skilled team to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective electrical service.

The ideal candidate combines technical acumen with financial discipline and a people-first leadership style to strengthen performance and position the utility for ongoing success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an accredited college or university.
• Eight+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in managing an electric utility of comparable size and complexity.
• Valid State of Illinois driver's license.
• Thorough understanding of electric supply, transmission, distribution, metering, and utility operations.
• Experience managing operating and capital budgets, major infrastructure projects, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong executive communication and relationship-building with senior leadership, employees, customers, and the public.
• Preferred qualifications include Electrical Engineering degree, MBA, or Illinois PE license.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive direction across electric utility operations, aligning service delivery and infrastructure performance with long-term objectives.
• Oversee electrical supply, transmission, distribution, metering, system maintenance, and construction activities for reliable service.
• Direct operating and capital budgets, financial planning, utility rate evaluations, and resource allocation for fiscal responsibility.
• Lead infrastructure improvement initiatives, including system expansion, engineering coordination, contractor oversight, and capital project execution.
• Build and mentor high-performing teams while strengthening accountability, employee engagement, succession planning, and workplace safety.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, regulatory stakeholders, employees, and customers to address priorities and evolving community needs.
• Advance process improvements, technology adoption, and performance measurement to enhance efficiency and customer service.

Skills

Executive leadership

Financial planning

Team mentorship

Stakeholder collaboration

Regulatory engagement

Education

Bachelor's in Engineering

Illinois PE license (preferred)

MBA preferred

Job description

Blue Signal Search seeks an accomplished electric utility leader to oversee a critical infrastructure operation in Naperville, IL. This executive role shapes long-term strategy, directs major investments, and leads a skilled team to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective electrical service.

The ideal candidate combines technical acumen with financial discipline and a people-first leadership style to strengthen performance and position the utility for ongoing success.