Executive Director

Central Coast Water Authority
Buellton, CA

Central Coast Water Authority

Buellton, California


Executive Director
Salary: up to $350,000

CCWA offers an excellent benefits package.

Final filing date: Monday, September 15, 2025.


Are you a seasoned water leader ready to take on one of California's most complex and influential water roles? Central Coast Water Authority | CCWA is seeking an exceptional and politically astute professional to serve as its next Executive Director. This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-performing agency that plays a vital role in water reliability for California's Central Coast.


CCWA is a public joint powers authority formed to deliver State Water Project water to Santa Barbara and southern San Luis Obispo counties. The next Executive Director will oversee a sophisticated network of water conveyance and treatment infrastructure, a dedicated team of professionals, and serve as the Authority's key representative on regional and state-level water policy issues.


CCWA's next leader will be:

  • A strategic and influential voice in California water policy with a deep understanding of the State Water Project and state water contracts.
  • A visionary planner with strong financial acumen, regulatory knowledge, and experience navigating multi-agency environments.
  • A trusted and collegial leader who excels in negotiation, interagency collaboration, and communicating complex issues with clarity and credibility.
  • A respected advocate who can represent CCWA's interests at the local, state, and federal level.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Public Administration, or related field; Master's degree and California PE license desirable.
  • 8-10 years of relevant experience in water/public agency management, including at least 6 years in a senior leadership role.

To be considered, submit your resume, cover letter, and six professional references at: https://www.cpshr.us/recruitment/2515


For more information contact:


Pam Derby

CPS HR Consulting

916-263-1401


To view an online brochure for this position visit: https://online.flipbuilder.com/kper/fxzv

Central Coast Water Authority website: https://www.ccwa.com


The Central Coast Water Authority is an equal opportunity employer.