Director, Operations (State)

Description

• Provide strategic and operational input to annual business plans, control budgets for responsible areas, and ensure that operational and financial targets are met or exceeded.
• Ensure that operational integrity is maintained, including regulatory compliance across all areas of operations.
• Build and maintain strong and collaborative relationships with labor unions that represent American Water employees. Provide input into labor relations planning and support the negotiation of Collective Bargaining Agreements.
• Establish relationships with and serve as operational contact for political and civic leaders and other key external stakeholders. Support and assist the VP Operations in maintaining and enhancing such relationships state-wide.
• Implement best operating practices to promote continuous improvement, innovation and excellent customer service. Ensure all state regional operations are performed in accordance with company standard procedures and policies.
• Work with the VP Operations and Engineering Leaders to develop the strategy and priorities for capital investment programs and drive the effective implementation of such programs. Directly oversee the successful execution of certain capital investment projects and programs which are the responsibility of the operations team to deliver.
• Drive performance by linking business units' objectives to company goals and values. Communicate a shared vision, energize and empower staff, and champion diversity.
• Support the business development function within the region. Assist in due diligence, and acquisition financial and resource planning, and ensure effective integration and performance of newly acquired water and wastewater systems.
• Develop operations strategies, direct and manage the water quality, environmental compliance, field operations, production and maintenance for water and wastewater operations within the state.
• Lead, motivate and develop staff in assigned operations areas. Build shared commitment to improving business performance and develop both individual and team capabilities.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the assessment of operating practices and the establishment of best practices.
• Strong written and verbal communications and keen listening ability (fluency in report writing and presentations).
• Bachelor's degree in operational discipline, management or related field. Role related work experience may be considered as a substitute for a college degree.
• Leadership presence: ability to engage and communicate effectively and maintain cooperative and collaborative working relationships with senior management and other key stakeholders).
• Extensive knowledge of the regulated water and wastewater utility business and its operations.
• Strong leadership ability and strategic planning skills.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Water and Wastewater licenses preferred
• Standard office with field visits where necessary
• Detail oriented to conduct thorough analysis and evaluations, render and implement timely decisions and recommendations.
• With a bachelor’s degree, 15+ years of experience successfully managing operational areas in multiple locations with represented employees.
• Knowledge of the applicable regulations, requirements and trends impacting the water and wastewater business, both regulated and nonregulated, as it exists throughout American Water locations and areas of new business opportunities.
• Interpersonal Skills (persuasion, negotiation, listening, collaboration, tact, diplomacy, problem solving, internal consulting).
• Up to 50% travel throughout the state.
• Project and Program Management skills, Quantitative skills (analytical, technical, problem solving). Effective people management (planning, organizing, recruiting, supervising, coaching, developing, and leading individual staff and teams)

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance