Leadership and Resilience in Water Management: A Conversation with Rob Thompson
In 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 Exchange 00:27 Meet Rob Thompson: Career Journey 01:23 Overview of OC San 02:43 The OC San Board: Composition and Challenges 04:19 Building Resilience at OC San 07:08 Strategic Planning for the Future 12:32 Leadership and Accountability 14:12 Final Thoughts and Advice
