DC Water Board of Directors Launches National Search for Chief Executive Officer
Graphic silhouette of DC monuments and landmarks and text "A National Search for Our Next Chief Executive Officer & General Manager. Lead one of the nation's premier water utilities into its next chapter."
The OrganizationImage with the following text: What We're Looking For The Board seeks a strategic, experienced executive with: - A proven record leading complex utility, infrastructure, or public-sector operations - Deep familiarity with regulatory compliance, capital planning, and large-scale infrastructure investment - A demonstrated commitment to customer service, affordability, and community engagement - Strong financial acumen and experience managing multi-hundred-million-dollar budgets - Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build trust with a Board, employees, elected officials, and the public

The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) provides safe, reliable water, sewer, and stormwater services to more than 700,000 residents and over 25 million annual visitors in the nation's capital. DC Water is recognized as one of the nation's leading water utilities, known for its investment in aging infrastructure, its leadership on clean water and environmental stewardship, and its commitment to affordability and equity for the customers it serves. 

The Opportunity

DC Water's Board of Directors has launched a national search for the utility's next Chief Executive Officer and General Manager. The Board has retained Heidrick & Struggles, a leading global executive search firm, to lead a comprehensive and inclusive recruitment process. The next CEO will guide DC Water through a pivotal chapter — advancing major infrastructure investment, regulatory compliance, workforce development, and continued financial and operational excellence — while building on the organization's legacy of service to the residents and ratepayers we serve in the District and across the region through our water and wastewater services, including the operation of the Blue Plains Resource Recovery Facility.

Process and Timeline

The Board anticipates finalist interviews this fall, with a final selection targeted for early November 2026. The search will be conducted with a commitment to a transparent, merit-based process.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $350,000 to $380,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. DC water has a full range of benefits, and more information about employee benefits are found on the Careers section of our website at dcwater.com/careers.

How to Apply or Refer a Candidate

Candidates and referrals of highly qualified individuals should be directed to Heidrick & Struggles at DCWCEO@heidrick.com. All inquiries will be held in confidence.

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

Christening of TBM Emily with DC Water Interim General Manager Matt Brown holding bottle of tap water to christen Emily
DC Water Welcomes the Community Underground to See the Potomac River Tunnel and Christens Tunnel Boring Machine Emily

DC Water celebrated the christening of Emily today. It’s the second giant tunnel boring machine (TBM) that will help build the 5.5-mile Potomac River Tunnel. The celebration continued with Community Day. Residents and families met Emily and stepped inside the tunnel where she will soon begin digging.

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Upcoming Meeting
Date
October 8, 2026
Thursday, 9:30 AM

Upcoming Events

Customer Service Center Announcement

Payment Plan Incentive: provides a credit back of 50% of the last 3 payments made. Eligible participants are residential customers who have had an outstanding balance for 60 days or greater and with an outstanding balance of $500 or more.