The General Manager of SMWD holds the highest full-time position in the organization. In partnership with the Board of Directors, the General Manager plans, organizes, coordinates and administers all District functions and activities. Essential responsibilities of the position include:

• Serving as a leader on California water policy

• Collaborating with the Board of Directors to continue to refine the long-term vision for the development of water resources to meet SMWD’s diverse needs

• Working with the Board to develop and communicate a strategic vision for the District by implementing the recommendations of the November 2023 organizational assessment

• Developing, inspiring, and leading a highly functioning and sophisticated executive team

• Strategizing and owning the career development of all team members, with a keen eye toward talent pipelining and sourcing, including succession planning and team building throughout the organization

• Owning the financial health of the District, including developing innovative ways to create additional revenue streams

• Overseeing the preparation of the annual capital improvement and operating budgets for the District; authorizing directly or through staff all budget transfers, expenditures, and purchases; providing information regarding the financial condition and needs to the Board of Directors

• Overseeing the administration, construction, use and maintenance of all District infrastructure, facilities and equipment

• Ensuring the production of timely and accurate annual operating and capital improvement budgets and regular reports of expenditures and construction schedules

• Establishing and maintaining effective, productive relationships with partner agencies including the Municipal Water District of Orange County and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

• Serving as a spokesperson to the public for all SMWD initiatives, particularly around issues of water system and supply reliability, affordability, and sustainability

• Leading communications efforts on behalf of the District - on social media, in the news, and at public events

• Effectively lobbying for increased resources from federal, state and regional entities

• Setting clear and reasonable expectations for staff and motivating them to achieve results

• Advocating for the District’s interests at the regional, state, and national levels

• Maintaining a positive and professional image of themselves and the District

As the leader of an agency with a large scope of responsibility, the General Manager’s duties are challenging, multifaceted, and rewarding. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of leadership practices, water supply and delivery infrastructure, and possess the experience, skills and qualities described below.