Kay R. New Takes on Chief Human Resources Officer Role
SJW Group, a prominent player in the investment-owned (NASDAQ: SJW) water and wastewater utility sector, has announced the appointment of Kay R. New as the chief human resources officer. With a wealth of experience in talent management and organizational effectiveness, New will immediately step into this pivotal position. Her primary focus will be on enhancing workforce engagement, performance, and development across the entire organization.
Leading with Excellence and Vision
Eric W. Thornburg, the esteemed chair and CEO, praised New's outstanding qualifications, emphasizing her capability to cultivate high-performance cultures and unify teams. Her extensive background in human resources strategy and genuine leadership style aligns perfectly with SJW Group's objectives, furthering the commitment to deliver high-quality water services to communities.
New’s Notable Background and Previous Roles
Before joining SJW Group, New held significant leadership roles at Avangrid, a major energy provider servicing millions of customers. As the vice president of rewards and employee experience, she played a crucial role in enhancing the overall employee journey—from onboarding to retirement programs. Her efforts in promoting diversity and creating an engaging work environment contributed to Avangrid earning accolades as a Top Employer in the U.S.
Driving Innovation in Human Resources
New's expertise extends to modernizing HR practices and implementing advanced technologies like Workday and ServiceNow, which improved operational efficiency and employee satisfaction. Her strategic vision is expected to foster an environment where employees feel connected and engaged, directly impacting service quality.
Building on a Solid Foundation
In addition to her dedicated work in HR, New has held roles in talent acquisition at SGS North America, showcasing her comprehensive understanding of the recruitment landscape. With a business administration degree focused on HR Management from Indiana Wesleyan University, along with a prestigious leadership program at ESADE Business School in Spain, she is well-prepared to lead SJW Group's human resource efforts.
A Commitment to Community and Inclusion
Beyond her corporate roles, New serves as the Advisory Board Chair for Trust for Public Land in Connecticut. This nonprofit focuses on connecting communities to outdoor spaces, reinforcing her commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity. With New on board, SJW Group is set to benefit from her innovative approach and experience, helping the company continue its legacy of exceptional service and community involvement.
About SJW Group
SJW Group stands among the largest investor-owned water and wastewater utility companies in the U.S., delivering essential services to over 1.6 million people. Their operations span various regions, including California, Connecticut, Maine, and Texas. The company prides itself on its robust financial health, operational expertise, and commitment to sustainable practices. SJW Group actively invests in local communities and focuses on creating value for both employees and stockholders through responsible management strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has been appointed as the Chief Human Resources Officer at SJW Group?
Kay R. New has been appointed as the Chief Human Resources Officer at SJW Group.
What are Kay R. New's primary responsibilities?
She will oversee talent development, organizational effectiveness, employee engagement, and performance within the company.
What previous role did Kay R. New hold before joining SJW Group?
Before SJW Group, she served as vice president of rewards and employee experience at Avangrid.
How does SJW Group aim to improve employee experience?
Through innovative HR strategies and advanced technologies, SJW Group aims to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
What is SJW Group's mission?
The mission of SJW Group is to provide high-quality water service and exceptional customer service while actively engaging with local communities.
