Director, Operations (Water/Wastewater)

Purpose

The Director of Operations works toward the achievement of Department and Liberty Utilities objectives as a whole. This is demonstrated by exercising leadership through directing, developing and implementing the Company’s business development/ growth strategy, budgeting/forecasting, water resource, production, treatment and distribution as well as the wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal activities.  Additionally, this position will support the Company’s rate making process.  This position is responsible for the operating and capital budget, along with the long term planning and growth of the utility.  This position ensures utility compliance with all Environmental, Health, Safety and Security policies and procedures, and compliance with federal, state, and local water and wastewater regulations.  This position will direct many ad hoc projects throughout the year and deploy resources to meet changing priorities and focus.  This position will set the tone, climate and vision for utility operations in the Division and help shape the same for the entire company.  This position will ensure that Liberty Utilities’ Values are adhered to in all that we do.  Performs other duties as assigned.

Accountabilities

• Directs the Operations and business results of drinking water, wastewater and reclaimed water, including recharge.
• Participates in the planning and development of water and wastewater rates and fees related to the Utility.  This may include testifying in front of State regulatory bodies, preparation of testimony, and participating in regulatory strategy matters.
• Ensures Utility compliance with all Federal, State, and Local rules, regulations policies and procedures governing water and wastewater utilities.  These include but are not limited to those rules of the EPA, ADEQ, ADWR, OSHA, ACC, TCEQ, and TPUC.
• Coordinates short, medium and long term plans for water supply, water demand, facility construction, wastewater conveyance treatment and disposal.
• Reviews and recommends new policies or amendments to policies and procedures of the Company, working with management including but not limited to Legal, HR, EH&S, Development Services, and Engineering Departments on water and wastewater resources, capacity, planning, financing and employee issues.
• Leads and develops Operations staff in executing Company goals and objectives
• Preparation of and adherence to operating and capital improvement budgets for the Utility, including review and approval of Utility invoices.
• Analyzes utility financial data, makes decisions on the information resulting from the analysis, and presents the results to management
• Identifies new issues and strategies related to water resources and conservation programs.
• Provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Other jobs, duties and projects of a similar nature or level as may be assigned from time to time.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field of study
• Expert knowledge of water/wastewater utilities, engineering and/or financial principles
• Prior financial and budgetary responsibility required.
• Minimum ten years’ experience with progressively responsible management level experience required. 
• Understanding of key business issues and requirements of the utility and resulting implications of specific legal issues.
• Proficient with computer applications including Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Flexibility with traveling within the US and Canada required
• Valid driver’s license and passport required