Vice President – Environmental Law & Regulatory Compliance, San Antonio Water System

About the Role

The Counsel for Environmental Law & Regulatory Compliance provides strategic and tactical oversight, develops and implements legal and business strategies consistent with the strategic plan, long-range water resource plans, and plans for the development and construction of water supplies facilities for the System, in conformance with local, state, and federal law, court decisions, and administrative rules and regulations. This role focuses on unique and challenging issues related to environmental compliance and networks with state and federal regulators.

Responsibilities

• Provides legal counsel and advice to the SVP-CLEO, SAWS’ Board of Trustees, President/CEO, Executive Management, and staff within related specialty.
• Maintains current knowledge and understanding of regulatory and policy developments, advises the SVP-CLEO of potential impacts, and develops compliance strategies.
• Represents the organization in enforcement actions, including appearing before relevant agencies.
• Provides management and supervision to in-house counsel and retains and manages outside counsel.
• Performs, plans, and assigns legal services related to the specialties, including drafting ordinances, resolutions, contracts, deeds, leases, and other legal documents, and supervises litigation as necessary.
• Prepares legal opinions for the System and/or its Board of Trustees; attends governing board meetings to advise on legal issues and questions.
• Plans and evaluates performance of assigned staff and legal consultants; establishes performance requirements and personal development targets; monitors performance and provides coaching; takes disciplinary action as needed.
• Advises the SVP-CLEO on the status of litigation and provides legal strategies for its management; implements decisions of the SVP-CLEO, President/CEO, and Board of Trustees regarding litigation.
• Provides legal representation, advice, and opinions in managing and resolving disputes that may lead to litigation.
• Provides direct legal support to the System’s legislative affairs team.
• Attends Board of Trustee meetings and counsels the Board on environmental and compliance-related legal matters.
• Evaluates and promotes new technology to enhance quality and efficiency of services.
• Forecasts, allocates, and monitors human, physical, and financial resources for the Group.
• Leads, selects, and develops a team of professionals charged with executing business strategy and maintaining operational integrity.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Car allowance
• Two different retirement plans
• Health care benefits
• Generous vacation policy