Current AWWA CEO & Past Executive Directors
From the current AWWA CEO to the first Executive Director in 1938, AWWA’s leadership has paved the way for the water community. These dedicated individuals have shared our mission and played a key role in industry growth.
David LaFrance
David LaFrance leads American Water Works Association, the world’s largest and oldest association of water professionals, with 50,000 members worldwide. Overseeing a staff of approximately 150 in Denver and Washington D.C., David guides AWWA’s extensive scientific, educational, and public policy work to build a better world through better water. He also oversees an extensive volunteer network, which includes serving as Secretary on the AWWA Board of Directors.
Prior to joining AWWA in 2010, David was the CFO for Denver Water. He has been a member of AWWA for 30 years, was the founder of CE Corps, and has made significant contributions to the water community both in and outside of AWWA.
Paula MacIlwaine
As American Water Works Association Deputy CEO, Paula MacIlwaine was directly responsible for work with business units involving conferences, international, technical and engineering, and publications. She worked closely with the AWWA governance and volunteer leaders who serve AWWA.
Paula joined AWWA in 1986 and has held various positions that have given her an extensive knowledge of the industry, volunteers, sections, and the business of AWWA.
Gary Zimmerman
Jack Hoffbuhr
John B. Mannion
D. B. Preston
Paul A. Schulte
Eric Johnson
Raymond Faust
Harry E. Jordan
Prior to Harry E. Jordan’s appointment as Executive Director, AWWA’s governing staff was volunteer-based, and the position was filled by the board secretary. Jordan became the first paid Executive Director of AWWA during his two decades of service.
