"If its installed, it had better be working" – The Secret To Building a Resilient Utility with Rob Thompson, General Manager, OC San, California

 Leadership and Resilience in Water Management: A Conversation with Rob ThompsonIn this episode of the Exec Exchange, host Dr. Piers Clark interviews Rob Thompson, General Manager of OC San (Orange County Sanitation District). Rob discusses his 29-year journey in the organization, from his beginnings in operations to his current role as General Manager. He provides an in-depth look at OC San, including its size, service coverage, and strategic planning processes. Rob emphasizes the importance of resilience, proactive maintenance, and forward-thinking in managing one of the largest wastewater agencies in the U.S. Additionally, he highlights how OC San's board comprises a diverse group of appointed members and the significance of having a strategic plan that evolves with new challenges and technologies. The episode wraps up with Rob's advice to new professionals to 'do the right thing, be patient, and stay at it.'00:00 Introduction to the Exec Exchange00:27 Meet Rob Thompson: Career Journey01:23 Overview of OC San02:43 The OC San Board: Composition and Challenges04:19 Building Resilience at OC San07:08 Strategic Planning for the Future12:32 Leadership and Accountability14:12 Final Thoughts and Advice