General Manager

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Carpinteria Valley Water District

• Organization Type:

Public Water/Wastewater Agency

•

Location:

Carpinteria, California

• Job Status:

Full-time

• Job

• Organization Website

Carpinteria Valley Water District invites visionary leaders to apply for the role of General Manager and Executive Director. Nestled in the beautiful coastal community of Carpinteria, this is a unique opportunity to lead two vital agencies dedicated to sustainable water management and community service.

The Widroe Group, with over 25 years of proven expertise in building exceptional organizations and securing top talent since 1998, is proud to conduct this confidential search. Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out directly and confidentially to Tom Widroe at  to learn more about this exciting leadership opportunity.

POSITION TITLE:

General Manager, Carpinteria Valley Water District (CVWD) and Executive Director, Carpinteria Groundwater Sustainability Agency (CGSA)

FLSA STATUS:
Exempt

MANAGER

JOB TITLE:

Reports to the Carpinteria Valley Water District (CVWD) Board of Directors

FTE STATUS:
Full-Time

DEPARTMENT:
Executive / Administration

JOB SUMMARY / PURPOSE

The General Manager (GM) & Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive of the Carpinteria Valley Water District and the Carpinteria Groundwater Sustainability Agency, overseeing all operations, strategic initiatives, capital improvement projects, and day-to-day administration of each agency. The GM provides visionary leadership to modernize infrastructure, ensure reliable water supply, and evolve organizational culture. This role is responsible for managing a diverse workforce that includes union-represented employees and is accountable directly to the elected Board of Directors.

The ED is responsible for planning and implementation of the Carpinteria Groundwater Sustainability Plan for Carpinteria Basin.

DIRECT REPORTS & KEY COLLABORATORS

Direct Reports:

• Operations Manager (Field Operations)

• Board of Directors

• External Legal Counsel

• Joint Power Authorities of which CVWD and CGSA are members

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Leadership & Strategic Direction

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction to the District in alignment with its mission, goals, and policies established by the Board.

• Serve as the primary advisor to the Board of Directors on operations, finance, capital improvements, water policy, and regulatory issues.

• Build trust with Board of Directors through transparency, communication, and listening.

• Promote a forward-thinking, inclusive culture that enhances organizational performance and responsiveness to community needs.

• Lead change management and culture evolution to strengthen employee engagement, service excellence, and innovation.

Capital Projects & Infrastructure Management

• Direct the planning, execution, and oversight of major capital improvement projects to upgrade water infrastructure and ensure long-term service reliability.

• Ensure that all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

• Oversee engineering, construction, and environmental review processes, and coordinate with consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies as needed.

Operations Oversight

• Ensure the efficient operation of water treatment, distribution, and administrative services.

• Monitor water supply reliability, water quality, and system performance metrics.

• Promote continuous improvement through effective systems, standards, and staff development.

Human Resources & Labor Relations

• Lead, develop, and motivate a high-performing team, including union-represented employees.

• Maintain positive labor relations and ensure…