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Position Description: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
 Reports To: Board of Directors
 Position Status: Full-Time
 Updated: 2025

Position Summary

The Executive Director is responsible for overall leadership, planning, and administration of DRWA’s operations, projects, and programs. This position provides executive-level oversight of day-to-day administration, project planning and implementation, grant and contract management, financial oversight, and board/government relations. The Executive Director serves as the primary point of contact with the DRWA Board of Directors, federal, state, and local agencies, contractors, engineers, legal counsel, and the public.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Leadership and Board Support

Serve as the chief administrative officer for DRWA, implementing policies and procedures established by the Board of Directors.

Prepare agendas, reports, and supporting documentation for all Board meetings.

Provide timely updates and recommendations to the Board on organizational, financial, and project matters.

Maintain compliance with bylaws, state and federal regulations, and grant requirements.

Project and Construction Coordination

Lead planning, procurement, and construction activities related to water and wastewater system projects.

Manage contracts with engineers, operators, and contractors; monitor progress, budgets, and schedules.

Coordinate with Bureau of Reclamation, DNRC, USDA, and other agencies on funding and compliance.

Oversee environmental, engineering, and technical studies required for project development.

Financial and Grant Management

Develop annual operating and capital budgets for Board approval.

Monitor financial performance against budget and provide regular reports for the Board and partners.

Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable; ensure timely and accurate processing.

Administer payroll, retirement, and leave records.

Maintain and reconcile accounting records for operations, construction funds, and customer accounts.

Prepare bank deposits, monitor cash flow, and manage delinquent accounts.

Assist in annual budget development and monitor expenditures against budget.

Support annual audit process with external auditors.

Research, prepare, and administer grant and loan applications.

Ensure compliance with all grant/loan requirements, including timelines, deliverables, and reporting.

Maintain documentation for in-kind match, reimbursements, and project expenditures.

Assist with preparation of funding requests and required financial reports.

External Relations and Communication

Maintain effective working relationships with state and federal legislators, agencies, and partner organizations.

Represent DRWA at meetings, hearings, conferences, and community events.

Communicate regularly with member communities, customers, and the public regarding projects and services.

Administration and Oversight

Supervise and evaluate office staff; ensure effective delegation of administrative, billing, and clerical tasks.

Develop and implement policies and procedures to improve efficiency and accountability with direction from the Board.

Ensure proper recordkeeping, regulatory filings, and reporting to oversight agencies.

Additional Expectations

Remain active in civic, community, and professional organizations to promote DRWA’s mission.

Maintain knowledge of laws, regulations, and industry best practices relevant to rural water authorities.

Perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors.

Relationships

Works directly with the Board of Directors, staff, engineers, operators, and consultants.

Maintains frequent contact with local governments, customers, contractors, and the general public.

Serves as the primary liaison with federal and state funding agencies, banks, auditors, grant/loan agencies, and customers.

Requirements and Qualifications

Experience in public administration, business, engineering, or related field preferred; Additional Experience in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.

Minimum three (3) years of progressively responsible management experience, preferably in water/wastewater, infrastructure, or public sector administration.

Demonstrated ability in grant writing and administration, project management, and financial oversight. Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and public-sector accounting standards preferred.

Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and exercise sound judgment.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, and standard office software.

Equipment Used

Standard office equipment: computer, printer, copier, telephone, calculator.

Occasional use of vehicles for field visits and meetings.

Physical Requirements

Extended periods of sitting and computer work.

Frequent driving within the service area; occasional overnight and out-of-state travel required.

Ability to lift up to 25 pounds (documents, supplies, equipment).

Occasional work in outdoor inclement weather.

Notes

Due to the evolving nature of construction and operational activities, duties and responsibilities are subject to change. The Board of Directors reserves the right to modify this job description as needed.