Overview
Executive Director Jobs in Naperville, IL at Illinois Section AWWA
Title: Executive Director
Company: Illinois Section AWWA
Location: Naperville, IL
Executive Director Illinois Section, American Water Works Association (ISAWWA), Naperville, IL
Full-Time, Exempt · Reports to: Board of Trustees
ISAWWA is seeking its next Executive Director: a connector and a servant leader who is member-focused, collaborative, transparent, and deeply invested in relationship-building across Illinois' water sector.
The ED is the chief management leader of ISAWWA and the primary point of accountability to the Board of Trustees for all operational, financial, programmatic, and strategic outcomes. The ED translates the Board's vision into action, leads a professional staff team of five, cultivates relationships across the state, and serves as ISAWWA's most visible external ambassador.
Top Priorities
- Execute ISAWWA's 2025–2028 strategic plan with measurable progress on all four pillars
- Grow and retain membership across Illinois' geographically diverse districts
- Deepen volunteer engagement through clear communication, appreciation, and genuine ownership
- Represent ISAWWA to IEPA, IDNR, legislative bodies, allied associations, and the broader water community
- Lead a high-performing staff team and a positive, mission-centered culture
- Support workforce development and next-generation pipeline efforts, including the Water Ambassador Program
- Ensure financial health, budget discipline, and transparent reporting to the Board
- Deliver WATERCON and all signature events at a consistently high standard
Key Responsibilities
- Board Governance & Strategic Leadership
- Financial Management & Organizational Viability
- Programs, Education & Events
- Member & Volunteer Engagement
- External Relations & Advocacy
- Staff Leadership & Operations
Required Qualifications
Minimum five years of senior leadership in a nonprofit association, professional society, or comparable organization; proven track record managing complex, multi-stakeholder organizations with staff and volunteer leadership; experience planning and executing large-scale conferences; demonstrated financial acumen; experience reporting to a volunteer board; undergraduate degree; and a demonstrated ability to learn and lead credibly in a technical industry. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may substitute for specific requirements.
Preferred
AWWA section or water-sector experience; working knowledge of water, wastewater, or environmental sector; advanced degree or CAE credential.
Compensation & Benefits $135K–$165K salary range; 5% SEP IRA contribution; employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision coverage plus a monthly stipend toward family health coverage; expense reimbursement; paid time off and holidays.
To Apply Submit a resume and cover letter to Elisa Pratt, MA, CAE, CVF, Executive Search Advisor at Brewer Pratt Solutions, LLC: [email protected]. Please include "ISAWWA Executive Director" in the subject line. A full position description is available upon request.
ISAWWA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds and experience.
