Chief Operating Officer, Water Distribution

The Virgin Islands Water & Power Authority

About The Position

Under direction of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), this is a professional and executive management position defining, developing, implementing, managing, and communicating the effective execution of operational strategies, processes, and programs for Water Distribution, Maintenance, Engineering and Services. Works closely with members of the Executive and Management team, Board members, and other external parties. Exercises judgment and discretion in all aspects of the position, with exposure to confidential and highly sensitive information; and is self-directed and deadline driven and flexible with a varying work schedule. Serves as functional team leader/coordinator for all water distribution, maintenance and engineering services in the executive office. Because the Authority has a primary responsibility to serve the public 24 hours per day, an employee in this class is expected to work extended hours as conditions demand and on short notice during emergency conditions.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public utility administration and its specific application to the administration of assigned areas of responsibility.
Thorough understanding of the business dynamics, regulatory issues, competitive issues, and general operating environment surrounding the assigned areas of responsibility.
Thorough knowledge of the local, state, and federal laws and regulations relating to the assigned areas of responsibility.
Knowledge of planning practices and principles.
Knowledge and experience in strategic planning and execution.
Knowledge and experience in formulating policy.
Knowledge in developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
Knowledge of contracting, negotiating, and change management.
Knowledge of public relations principles and practices.
Knowledge of budgeting methods and systems.
Knowledge of project management practices and principles.
Professional oral and written communication skills in English.
Customer service, strategic, and critical thinking skills.
Interpersonal skills to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Computer software skills using Microsoft Office.
Ability to make sound decisions and take or guide courses of action in operations.
Ability to deliver public presentations.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
Ability to analyze and resolve irregular events.
Ability to work a flexible schedule and to travel.
Ability to set strategy, provide direction, and create plans to meet both functional and departmental goals.
Ability to manage multiple strategic and tactical projects.
Bachelor's Degree in an applicable Engineering discipline related to the area of assigned responsibility from an Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET) accredited university and ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in the operation of water and engineering, and planning for the assigned areas of responsibility, at least five (5) years of which were in a management capacity.

Nice To Haves

A Master's degree is preferred.
Experience requirements may be partially waived when a candidate is appointed into the position for professional development or business needs.

Responsibilities

Plans, organizes, directs, and guides the execution of strategies, processes, programs and business operations for assigned departments within the Water Distribution Division.
Maintains current knowledge of organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Confers with executive team and recommends changes in policies, organization programs, methods and procedures, and communicates changes.
Coordinates with assigned staff to execute the initiatives, strategies, and directives of the Water Distribution Division.
Develops and oversees administrative and program standards for the assigned departments.
Oversees the implementation of programs and processes.
Reviews and evaluates results of program impact; provides summary findings to Executive Management, and recommends options to optimize programs and processes.
Supports the continuous quality improvement of complex business processes, optimization, and allocation of resources.
Oversees project management of projects within the Water Distribution Division.
Oversees the development and management of the annual operating and capital improvement budget for the assigned departments.
Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities, including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal of all Water Distribution Division employees.
Reviews and prepares reports as part of the process of monitoring and communicating performance results.
Makes verbal and written presentations regarding assigned functional areas.
Conducts and participates in long and short-range studies regarding the assigned departments.
Provides strategic support to Executive Management in the areas of planning, research, communications, and project management.
Takes direction from Executive Management in ensuring that the business policy and imperatives created by the CEO are being accomplished by the Water Distribution Division.
Advises management in appropriate resolution of issues related to assigned functional areas.
Confers with responsible regulatory agencies relative to the goals and operational standards of the departments within the Water Distribution Division.
Is active and represents the utility in state organizations related to assigned functional areas including state and national utility associations.
Monitors and identifies legal requirements, government reporting regulations, and legislative issues and priorities affecting assigned functional areas and determines their respective impacts on current and future operations.
Ensures policies, procedures and reporting are in compliance.
Serves as utility representative with local, State, Federal, and International agencies concerning utility regulations, grants, operational functions and procedures.
Completes other job duties as assigned.