SJW Group, one of the nation’s largest investor-owned pure-play water and wastewater utilities, announced a leadership transition that marks the next phase of the company’s strategic direction and planned growth. After eight years of servant leadership and over 40 years of service to the drinking water profession, Eric W. Thornburg will retire as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President of SJW Group on June 30, 2025. He will remain on the SJW Group Board of Directors (the “Board”) as non-executive Chair of the Board.
The Board has appointed Andrew F. Walters as the company’s next CEO, effective July 1, 2025. Walters, who currently serves as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of SJW Group, has been a driving force in the company’s financial strength and growth. The Company will name a new Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer to succeed Mr. Walters.
In addition, SJW Group is pleased to announce the promotion of key members of its executive team to further strengthen its leadership structure:
Bruce A. Hauk, Chief Operating Officer of SJW Group, will also serve as President of SJW Group. Hauk has nearly 30 years of water utility experience.
Kristen A. Johnson, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of SJW Group, will also step into the role of President of the Shared Services organization. Johnson has nearly 20 years of water utility experience.
The promotions of Hauk and Johnson are also effective July 1, 2025.
A legacy of growth and impact
Under Thornburg’s tenure, SJW Group has experienced transformational growth and operational excellence. A key architect of the 2019 acquisition of Connecticut Water Service, Inc. Thornburg successfully expanded the company’s geographic footprint from two states to four, positioning SJW Group as one of the nation’s largest investor-owned water utilities. During his tenure, the Company also delivered tremendous growth in the company’s Texas operations, which have quadrupled in water and wastewater connections since their acquisition in 2006. Most importantly, he built a national leadership team that is collaboratively strengthening and supporting the four local utilities under the SJW Group umbrella while enhancing service for 1.6 million customers nationwide.
“It has been an incredible privilege to lead and work alongside such a talented team at SJW Group,” said Thornburg. “After 43 years in the water profession, I can say without hesitation that this company and its people share my passion for service to customers, employees and shareholders. I am excited to pass the torch on to Andrew, who has demonstrated exceptional vision, disciplined execution, and a deep commitment to our culture of operational excellence and servant leadership. I have no doubt that he, alongside Bruce, Kristen, and the rest of our seasoned leadership team, will continue to build on our legacy and create an even stronger future for our employees, customers and communities nationwide.”
A vision for the future
A proven leader with nearly 25 years of experience in the utility sector, Walters has played an integral role in shaping SJW Group’s financial and operational strategy. As CEO, he will focus on investing in critical infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiencies, and advancing sustainability – while keeping affordability and service excellence at the forefront. Prior to joining SJW Group in 2014, Walters developed deep experience managing infrastructure funds and in investment banking.
“I am truly honored to step into this role and build on the momentum we’ve gained under Eric’s leadership,” said Walters. “I couldn’t ask for better team than Bruce and Kristen, who have been instrumental in driving our success and positioning us for long-term growth. Together, we will continue to deliver operational excellence and sustainable growth, and create long-term value for our customers, employees, and shareholders alike. I look forward to partnering with Eric in his new role as non-executive chair of the board to ensure a smooth transition.”
