JOB OPENING ANNOUNCEMENT

Kosrae Utilities Authority (KUA) is seeking a visionary and dynamic leader to serve as its General Manager. KUA is a public utility responsible for delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy and water services to the people of Kosrae. This leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the energy future of the island, driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in utility operations. The General Manager (GM) is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and operational efficiency of KUA. The GM will ensure the organization fulfills its mission to deliver reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy and water services while fostering community trust and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all KUA functions, including power generation, distribution, and customer services.
• Ensure reliable and cost-effective delivery of electricity and water services to the people of Kosrae.
• Develop and implement long-term plans to ensure reliable energy supply, system resiliency, and financial sustainability.
• Foster innovation by integrating renewable energy technologies and promoting energy efficiency initiatives.
• Manage financial performance, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and sound fiscal practices.
• Collaborate with government agencies, community stakeholders, and international partners to advance KUA’s mission.

Duties

• To attend all meetings of the Board and to submit a general report to the Kosrae State Governor thru the Board on the affairs of Kosrae Utilities Authority.
• To keep the Board advised on the needs of KUA.
• To approve demands for payments of obligations for the purposes and within amounts authorized by the Board.
• To ensure that all fees and bills imposed by Kosrae Utilities Authority are charged and collected. 
• To manage the daily business of the Authority; to select and appoint the employees of KUA.
• To publish within 60 days after the end of each fiscal year, in the manner required by the Board, a complete financial and operations statement showing the result of operations for the preceding fiscal year and the financial status of KUA on the last day.
• To perform such other and additional duties as the Board may require.

Detailed Duties and Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement KUA’s long-term strategic vision and objectives in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for modernization and growth, including renewable energy integration and energy efficiency programs.
• Monitor trends in the utility sector to ensure KUA remains innovative and competitive.
• Review and establish policies, procedures, and benchmarks to align with KUA’s mission and values.

2. Operational Management

• Oversee daily operations to ensure uninterrupted energy generation, transmission, and distribution.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and compliance of the water treatment facility, ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality water.
• Develop and enforce operational policies and procedures for efficiency and compliance with industry standards.
• Ensure the maintenance, repair, and upgrading of utility infrastructure, including power plants, grid systems, water and customer service platforms.
• Lead efforts to diversify energy sources, particularly in renewable energy projects such as solar and ocean/wave.
• Manage emergency and contingency plans for power outages and other operational risks.

3. Financial Oversight

• Prepare and manage the organization’s annual budget in collaboration with finance staff and the Board of Directors.
• Monitor and control operational expenditures to ensure financial sustainability.
• Implement systems to track revenue, control costs, and forecast financial performance.
• Ensure accurate billing processes and address customer service issues related to billing disputes.
• Identify funding opportunities, including grants and loans, for energy development and modernization projects.

4. Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with local, regional, and national laws and regulations governing utilities.
• Develop and implement policies to adhere to environmental and safety standards.
• Prepare and submit required reports, including financial, operational, and environmental compliance reports, to relevant authorities.
• Advocate for KUA in regulatory forums and maintain strong relationships with government agencies.

5. Human Resource Management

• Recruit and retain a skilled and diverse workforce.
• Create a safe, productive, and inclusive work environment.
• Establish and enforce policies for employee performance, training, and professional development.
• Resolve employee grievances and foster positive labor relations.
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

6. Stakeholder and Community Engagement

• Act as the primary spokesperson for KUA, maintaining a strong public image and trust.
• Work closely with Customer Service Division to address communications with customers on concerns in order to improve service delivery.
• Build partnerships with local government, businesses, and community organizations to align energy goals with community needs.
• Represent KUA at regional and international energy conferences and forums.

7. Board Liaison

• Serve as the primary advisor to the Board of Directors on operational and strategic matters.
• Provide regular updates on KUA’s performance, challenges, and opportunities.
• Implement decisions and directives issued by the Board of Directors.
• Assist in setting agendas and preparing reports for Board meetings.

9. Innovation and Sustainability

• Promote the adoption of renewable energy sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Develop energy efficiency programs for customers to reduce demand and lower costs.
• Pursue grants and partnerships for sustainability initiatives and innovation projects.
• Monitor technological advancements in the energy sector and integrate cost-effective solutions.

10. Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare and submit regular performance and financial reports to the Board and relevant regulatory agencies.
• Maintain accurate records of operations, contracts, and regulatory filings.
• Ensure transparency and accountability in all communications and documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Energy Management, or a related field (Master’s degree is a plus).
• Minimum of 2 years of senior management experience in utility operations, energy, or infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy systems, grid management, and financial planning.
• Proven ability to lead and manage diverse teams and large-scale projects.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities of island utility operations is a plus.

Employment Includes:

Employment contract is for 2 years.

Attractive benefits package includes Housing, Vehicle allowance, Relocation expense, Vacation Life insurance, Supplementary medical programs

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit the following:

1. A detailed CV/resume highlighting relevant experience.
2. A cover letter outlining your vision for KUA and how your background aligns with the role.
3. Three professional references with contact information.

For more information, call KUA at (691) 370-3799

Send resume and required documents to [email protected] or [email protected]