KU seeks a successor to the utility’s General Manager (GM) who is retiring after serving for 19 years in this role. The GM is expected to provide a compelling vision and strong leadership skills. He or she will direct all activities within the KU organization and build upon KU’s strong record of safety, system reliability, cost effective operations, and continuous improvement. In addition, the GM is expected to effectively manage recruitment, retention, training, and development of staff to assure KU’s continued success.

KU’s GM reports to a seven-member Utility Commission and oversees an annual operating budget of approximately $50 million and an annual capital budget of approximately $5 million. The GM sets the professional tone for the entire organization and is expected to consistently elevate performance metrics, financial results, and service delivery for the benefit of customers and the community. He or she must be an effective and proactive communicator who will work collaboratively and transparently with KU’s Utility Commission, City leadership, customers, industry peers, the Public Service Commission, employees, and other key stakeholders. The GM must ensure the Utility Commission is fully appraised of emerging financial and operational challenges and issues, as well as regulatory, legislative, and technological changes and trends. The GM will lead a 57-person workforce.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Facilitate Utility Commission oversight and governance decision-making by providing information and perspectives relative to utility operations and industry data; develop policy recommendations; facilitate Commission meetings and agendas.
• Establish and maintain a highly effective organizational culture that is safety driven, employee empowered, and focused on high levels of achievement in all areas including safety, reliability, customer service, sound fiscal policies, technology development and employee development and performance.
• Maintain and enhance utility human resources by providing the tools and resources necessary for team members to perform their job responsibilities in an effective, efficient and accountable work environment.
• Strongly advocate for effective energy policy and work effectively with local, state and national policy makers and regulatory officials.
• Enhance and protect the public image and position of the utility through a highly effective communications and community relations program to increase awareness, understanding and support of utilities goals and plans; interact with customers and respond to concerns and complaints; communicate with the public and news media through appropriate means.
• Take an active role in utility associations and local business and economic development organizations; serve on various boards, commissions and committees as appropriate or as directed by the Utility Commission on a local, regional, statewide and national basis. Leadership roles are highly encouraged.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

Ideal candidates will offer at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in an electric and water utility setting, which includes serving successfully in a senior management role. This must include experience in the technical aspects of electric utility management, along with the ability to establish, execute, and achieve KU’s annual budget and financial strategies.

KU will require a leader with outstanding oral and written communication skills (e.g., listens to others’ opinions, is approachable, and able to communicate effectively to a variety of constituencies and audiences). The GM must maintain a high level of integrity, trust and credibility with all stakeholders and be able to balance becoming an integral part of the community, while also maintaining meaningful employee engagement by empowering, mentoring, and developing employees.

The right cultural fit between the GM and KU is critical. The GM is expected to work as part of a team in an innovative, open and participatory environment. In addition, he or she must possess a strong customer service mentality, unquestionable ethics and integrity, and share KU’s commitment and passion for renewable technologies, beneficial electrification, and other emerging technologies.

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college in engineering, finance, or business, is considered ideal. As is additional education in management, administration, or a similar applicable field, along with related professional certifications.

KU is also targeting individuals with the following competencies and personal characteristics:

• Considerable experience evaluating financial and technical projections and information with sound analytical ability to evaluate alternatives.
• Substantial working knowledge of operational, financial, engineering, administrative and planning functions within an electric and water utility environment.
• Ability to articulate a tangible vision, corporate values and strategy.
• Strong prioritization and management skills.
• Demonstrated success in developing, managing, and leading employees.

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND RELOCATION

The total compensation and relocation package is competitive and will be dependent upon qualifications and experience. In addition to salary, KU offers an excellent benefits package that includes participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, a retirement matching 401a program, and affordable health plan options.

TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a PDF cover letter and resume to pprouse@mfpllc.us no later than May 17, 2021.
Patrick Prouse
Mycoff Fry Partners LLC
PO Box 1310 Conifer, CO 80443
(800) 525-9082

Kaukauna Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer