SUMMARY
The Director of Administration provides executive leadership and strategic oversight of the District’s financial operations, customer service functions, billing and ERP systems, field service coordination, and administrative policies. This position oversees both the Finance Manager and Administration Manager, ensuring effective internal controls, sound fiscal planning, and efficient delivery of customer-facing services. The Director is responsible for aligning administrative and financial operations with District-wide goals, leading cross-departmental initiatives, and promoting transparency, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following list is intended to represent key responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned.
Strategic Leadership
- Directs and integrates the work of the Finance and Administration divisions, fostering collaboration and shared accountability.
- Leads long-term planning and organizational development efforts in administrative and financial areas.
- Advises the CEO and Board of Trustees on operational and financial strategies, including rate-setting, capital investment, and service delivery improvements.
Financial Oversight
- Oversees financial planning, budgeting, audit coordination, grant administration, rate studies, and debt management in coordination with the Finance Manager.
- Ensures compliance with all local, state, and federal financial regulations.
- Promotes strong internal controls, transparency, and risk management practices.
Administrative and Customer Service Leadership
- Supervises the Administration Manager and ensures high-quality billing, customer service, field service coordination, and regulatory compliance related to service delivery (e.g., backflow program, new connections).
- Drives optimization of ERP and customer information systems to improve accuracy, efficiency, and data integrity.
- Oversees implementation of customer outreach and public relations strategies, including communications, website updates, and educational campaigns.
Organizational Development and Communication
- Promotes employee development and cross-training across administrative and finance staff.
- Establishes standard operating procedures and performance metrics to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
- Communicates effectively with internal teams, customers, and external partners, including participation in Board and committee meetings.
Policy and Compliance
- Leads development and implementation of administrative and fiscal policies, ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory requirements.
- Oversees FOIA compliance, recordkeeping, and administrative reporting requirements.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, finance, business administration, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in public sector administration or utility management, including at least three (3) years in a senior supervisory or executive role.
- Experience in utility billing, ERP systems, budgeting, and financial oversight required.
BENEFITS
This is a direct hire, salaried role, ranging from $90,000-120,000/year, depending on experience.
Health, dental and vision insurance, paid holidays and vacation, sick and personal time and IMRF defined pension benefit. Training and career development funding and support. Annual longevity bonus.
