Strategic Leader: Water Utility General Manager

MRA - The Management Association; Menomonee Falls (WI); On-site; USD 144,000 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

The Waukesha Water Utility seeks an experienced General Manager to provide strategic leadership, directing operations, engineering, finance, and administration while ensuring safe, reliable water service. Reporting to the Water Commission, this role partners with city leadership and stakeholders to guide long-term sustainability and capital programs.

The ideal candidate will bring a track record of executive leadership, regulatory knowledge, and a commitment to workforce development, safety, and

Qualifications

• Ten+ years of progressively responsible leadership in utility operations.
• Six+ years of senior management or executive-level leadership.
• Experience with infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and organizational leadership.
• Experience presenting to governing boards, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and public stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all water utility functions.
• Partner with the Water Commission to establish policies, priorities, and long-term strategic goals.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team while fostering a culture of accountability, safety, service, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee annual operating and capital budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation.
• Direct infrastructure planning, asset management, and capital improvement programs.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing public water systems.
• Represent the Utility before the Water Commission, Common Council, regulatory agencies, and community organizations.
• Address customer concerns and maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders.
• Maintain a visible leadership presence across the organization, including regular engagement with Utility staff.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, operational improvements, and long-term service opportunities to support sustainability and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership experience

Strategic planning

Regulatory compliance

Budgeting

Stakeholder engagement

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Engineering, Environmental Science, Utility Management, or a related field

Job description

The Waukesha Water Utility seeks an experienced General Manager to provide strategic leadership, directing operations, engineering, finance, and administration while ensuring safe, reliable water service. Reporting to the Water Commission, this role partners with city leadership and stakeholders to guide long-term sustainability and capital programs.

The ideal candidate will bring a track record of executive leadership, regulatory knowledge, and a commitment to workforce development, safety, and