The Virginia Peninsulas Public Service Authority (VPPSA) is seeking an experienced professional to serve as Executive Director to lead and direct a regional governmental organization that provides a variety of solid waste management services to the cities of Hampton, Poquoson, Williamsburg and the counties of Essex, King and Queen, King William, Mathews, Middlesex, James City and York. The Executive Director serves as the chief administrative and operational officer of the Virginia Peninsulas Public Service Authority, reporting directly to the VPPSA Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall management, direction, and coordination of all Authority operations, staff, programs, and service delivery across the full multi-jurisdictional service territory. This is a highly visible public-sector leadership role requiring the ability to work effectively with elected officials, appointed board members, member jurisdiction staff, regulatory agencies, contractors, and the public across a geographically diverse region. The Executive Director must balance sound fiscal management with responsive, high-quality service delivery while advancing VPPSA's environmental mission. VPPSA employs 65 full-time staff members and operates with an annual budget of approximately $11.6 million, including nearly $5 million in contracted solid waste services. The administrative staff currently includes the Executive Director, Deputy Director (vacant), Recycling Coordinator and Safety Officer, Project Analyst, Office Manager and a part-time Accounting Clerk.

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Education

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Environmental Science, Business Administration, Engineering, or a closely related field is required. A Master's degree in a related field is strongly preferred. Experience
• A minimum of six (6) to nine (9) years of progressively responsible solid waste management experience or executive-level experience in solid waste management, public works, fleet management, environmental services, transportation, or related government administration; or an equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities
• Demonstrated experience managing, negotiating, and administering complex contracts and vendor agreements, with the ability to protect organizational interests while fostering productive business relationships
• Demonstrated experience working with or reporting to a board, commission, or elected governing body
• Demonstrated experience developing and managing multi-year budgets, capital projects, and intergovernmental service agreements
• Prior experience supervising professional and technical staff across multiple work locations is highly desirable
• Familiarity with Virginia solid waste regulations, DEQ permitting processes, and applicable federal environmental requirements is a significant advantage Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Strong knowledge of solid waste management principles, recycling technologies, transfer operations, and composting practices
• Demonstrated excellent presentation, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively to governing bodies, employees, community stakeholders, and the public
• Proven ability to build consensus and manage relationships across diverse stakeholder groups
• Valid Virginia driver's license VPPSA offers a competitive compensation with an anticipated annual salary range of $120,000 to $160,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications.

The benefits package includes including participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS), health insurance coverage, paid time off, and professional development support. A review of applications will begin on August 10, 2026. Candidates whose qualifications most closely match the needs of the position will be contacted for initial interviews. Applications received after that date may be considered until the position is filled; however, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by August 10, 2026. To be considered, please submit a cover letter, resume, and professional references to the Berkley Group, via email at libby.gooden@bgllc.net.