General Manager

Position Summary

The General Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, directing, and overseeing the daily operations of the Northwest New Mexico Utility Authority. This position carries out the priorities, policies, and long-range plans established by the Board of Directors and is accountable to the Board for organizational performance, operational compliance, financial stewardship, and strategic growth. The General Manager serves as the Authority’s principal administrative leader and public representative, ensuring that utility services are delivered efficiently and in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and oversee the daily activities and operations of the Authority.
• Implement the priorities, policies, and long-range plans established by the Board of Directors.
• Monitor organizational performance and provide regular reports, analyses, and recommendations to the Board.
• Prepare accurate and timely operational and financial analyses, including business results, variances, and performance trends.
• Coordinate and lead annual budget development, monthly and quarterly budget reviews, and periodic forecast updates.
• Ensure utility operations are conducted efficiently and in compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and standards.
• Ensure the Authority operates under sound financial principles and in accordance with the Board-approved budget.
• Represent the Authority at public meetings, Board meetings, intergovernmental meetings, and community events.
• Serve as the face of the organization and primary spokesperson in public and professional settings.
• Build relationships with regional water and sanitation entities, government agencies, businesses, property owners, and community stakeholders to support collaboration and growth.
• Attend meetings within the region to promote Authority services, strengthen partnerships, and support regional utility coordination.
• Hire, supervise, direct, and evaluate staff and contractors as required.
• Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures, and operational practices that support effective governance and service delivery.
• Perform other duties, responsibilities, and activities as assigned in support of Authority operations, including work on evenings and weekends when needed.

Supervision and Decision-Making

This position functions with considerable latitude for independent judgment and decision-making, while operating in compliance with the Authority’s governance documents, adopted policies, and all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. The General Manager supports the Board of Directors by providing professional recommendations and is accountable to the Board for organizational results.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Public Administration, Engineering, Utility Management, or a related field. A master’s degree in Business Administration or Public Administration is preferred.
• Relevant experience may be substituted for formal education when appropriate.
• Minimum of five (5) years of leadership, managerial, and supervisory experience, preferably including at least two (2) years in a public or private water, wastewater, sanitation, or utility system.
• General knowledge of water, wastewater, sanitation, or related utility system operations is preferred.
• Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States in accordance with federal law.
• Must possess and maintain a valid State of New Mexico driver’s license and an acceptable driving record sufficient to meet the Authority’s vehicle and liability insurance requirements.
• Possession of a New Mexico water operator license is preferred, or the ability and willingness to obtain one if required.
• New Mexico Public Purchasing CPO Certification is preferred, or the ability and willingness to obtain one if required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of modern leadership and management practices.
• Knowledge of basic accounting, bookkeeping, budgeting, and financial oversight principles.
• Knowledge of strategic planning and project management.
• Ability to build strong relationships and negotiate effectively with government agencies, utility companies, businesses, property owners, and community groups.
• Ability to lead others toward common goals in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to develop, implement, and maintain policies and procedures.
• Ability to speak clearly, professionally, and confidently in public settings.
• Ability to respond to public inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
• Ability to write clearly and effectively for both external communications and internal reports to the Board.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in sensitive and internal matters.
• Understanding of community engagement and sensitivity to the unique culture of the region served by the Authority.

Preferred Attributes

• Demonstrates creativity, strategic thinking, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning.
• Works effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Maintains a friendly, professional, and approachable demeanor.
• Communicates responsively with Board members, staff, constituents, and stakeholders.
• Shows a willingness to understand and work within the unique communities served by the Authority.

Working Conditions and Other Requirements

The General Manager position may require attendance at evening and weekend meetings, travel within the region, and active participation in public meetings and community events. The General Manager must perform duties with professionalism, sound judgment, and accountability to the Board of Directors while supporting the Authority’s mission, operations, and long-term development.

Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000 - $75,000