The Board of Directors of Cornhusker Public Power District (CPPD) in Columbus, NE has initiated a search for their next General Manager/CEO. The current GM/CEO has announced his retirement.

About Cornhusker Public Power District
Cornhusker Public Power District is an electric distribution utility that provides electricity to rural portions of Platte, Colfax, Boone, Nance, Greeley, Wheeler, and Merrick Counties. CPPD is headquartered in Columbus with service centers located in Albion and Fullerton. CPPD provides electricity to over 10,000 customers for their residential, industrial, agricultural and commercial uses.

CPPD has 47 dedicated, full-time employees serving approximately 10,700 meters over 3,400 miles of distribution line. CPPD has annual revenue of approximately $38 million with a total utility plant valued at over $91 million. CPPD receives its wholesale power via an all-requirements contract with the Nebraska G&T Cooperative through generation sources produced by Nebraska Public Power District.

The GM/CEO reports directly to the 10-person Board and is responsible for the administration and execution of all district activities in accordance with approved policies, budgets and programs. The GM/CEO develops strategies and operational policies to achieve established objectives, generates and maintains a strong team environment through professional development and example, and consults with and advises the Board on all matters pertaining to finances, operations, public relations, human relations and planning.

Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will have a broad electric utility background and be a well-rounded leader with a commitment to employee development and team growth. The successful candidate will also possess the ability to build relationships and establish trust with the Board, team members, customers, suppliers, public officials, the community, and associated consultants and organizations. The successful candidate will also have strong operational management skills, directing development of budgets, and reviewing financials.

The General Manager/CEO assumes responsibility and has commensurate authority for the following activities:

Strategic Leadership
• Keeps informed of national industry trends, identifies and explores desirable developments and makes appropriate recommendations to the Board on matters requiring its consideration and approval.
• Plans, develops, and recommends to the Board policies on such subjects as finance, organization, operations, power use, purchasing, credit and collections, personnel, and employee compensation.
• Initiates and develops long range system plans and an annual work schedule.
• Reviews, as necessary, the rate structure and schedules, directs rate studies, and provides recommendations to the Board for rate changes.
• Reviews load growth and initiates plans for necessary power supply.

Operational Management
• Develops and implements a management system that facilitate employee growth and development, maintains a positive work environment, fosters a cooperative spirit amongst employees, and ensures the smooth continuity of the District’s workforce.
• Directs the development of the District’s annual budgets and presents to the Board.
• Reviews financial forecasts, long range plans, work programs, statistical reports, and power requirement studies; analyzes performance compared to plans and standards; and reviews with Board and staff.
• Oversees the financial health of the District and ensures all District funds are accounted and invested in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and Board policies.
• Selects and recommends to the Board appointment of financial auditors and outside consultants, and as necessary; negotiates contracts for their services.

Minimum Qualifications
• Strong, applicable education background.
• 10+ years’ experience in the utility industry.
• Multi-faceted utility industry experience.
• Strong employee management skills and a proven record of employee development.
• Willing to be an engaged community leader in Columbus and surrounding communities.
• Live within twenty minutes of the District Headquarters in Columbus, NE.

How to Apply
Please submit the following: 1) Cover letter, 2) Resume, and 3) Three professional references, including all contact information via email to personnel@bwjlawgroup.com.

Applications must be received by May 2, 2025. All applications are strictly confidential.

Inquiries should be directed to Dave Jarecke at BWJ Law Group at (402) 475-7080.

About Cornhusker Public Power District

Cornhusker Public Power District is an electric distribution utility that provides electricity to rural portions of Platte, Colfax, Boone, Nance, Greeley, Wheeler, and Merrick Counties. CPPD is headquartered in Columbus with service centers located in Albion and Fullerton. CPPD provides electricity to over 10,000 customers for their residential, industrial, agricultural and commercial uses. CPPD has 47 dedicated, full-time employees serving approximately 10,700 meters over 3,400 miles of distribution line. CPPD has annual revenue of approximately $38 million with a total utility plant valued at over $91 million. CPPD receives its wholesale power via an all-requirements contract with the Nebraska G&T Cooperative through generation sources produced by Nebraska Public Power District.

Connections working at Cornhusker Public Power District