Gilder Search Group is hiring: City of Newport News, VA - Waterworks Assistant D

City of Newport News, VA - Waterworks Assistant Director

Raftelis - Newport News, VA, United States

The City of Newport News is searching for an Assistant Director of Strategies in the Waterworks Department who will oversee a team of up to 60 employees. This Assistant Director will lead with integrity and confidence and will have considerable influence in the overall administration, execution, and management of water utility services, especially overseeing and coordinating the financial and digital strategies of the regional water utility. The candidate will bring business analytics, customer engagement, and financial strategies to the Waterworks department.

The Assistant Director will report to the Director of Waterworks and work alongside the Assistant Director of Operations to advance the department.

The Assistant Director of Strategies will lead a team of highly competent staff committed to providing the City and the region with exceptional water and ensuring the water system's continued financial and digital integrity. The Assistant Director of Strategies will have three direct reports: the Administrators of the Business Services, Strategic Governance, and Data Governance Divisions.

In addition to internal leadership, the position plays a critical external role in engaging the community and establishing positive working relationships with regional stakeholders, the local media, and intergovernmental partners.

Experience and Education

Minimum requirements are any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, engineering, or a related field and seven to 10 years of progressively responsible experience. A minimum of five years of supervisory experience, business analytics, and data interpretation experience are also required.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal Assistant Director of Strategies will be a demonstrated leader with strong business analytics, customer engagement and financial strategy, data governance, enterprise software implementation, or high-level financial management experience. The Assistant Director of Strategies will be able to instill trust in staff and facilitate a team-oriented culture that is reflected both internally and externally. This person will be skilled in strategic planning and have a clear vision that will allow for the continued success of Newport News Waterworks.

The Assistant Director of Strategies will actively engage staff and serve as a key member of the City’s executive leadership team. This individual will be exceptional at interpersonal and mentorship skills in persuasively communicating priorities and expectations, empowering staff to reach their full potential, and holding themselves and department personnel accountable. This candidate will solicit input from a variety of sources.

Compensation and Benefits

The expected hiring range is $145,000 - $160,000, depending on qualifications, with an excellent benefits package. Benefits offered include the following:

• Health, dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability insurance
• Retirement benefits through the State of Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• Deferred compensation
• Paid leave
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Discounted fitness center memberships
• Relocation up to $5,000

How to Apply

Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning March 15, 2025.