American Water Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

American Water has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and human resources.

Driven by essential infrastructure services, American Water is dedicated to delivering reliable water and wastewater solutions that support public health, environmental sustainability, and economic activity across the United States.

Leadership Roles at American Water

  • Chief Financial Officer - James McCabe
  • Divisional Chief Financial Officer & Strategic Business Partner - Angela Votoupal
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - David Bowler
  • Senior Vice President, Deputy, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Health and Safety Officer - Michael Doran
  • President, American Water Charitable Foundation - Carrie Williams
  • President - Robert Ross
  • President Indiana American Water - Barry Suits
  • President - Mark McDonough
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer - Melanie Kennedy
  • Life Member - Ronnie Graves
  • James McCabe - Chief Financial Officer

    James McCabe, the Chief Financial Officer at American Water, directs the companys financial strategy and operations. This role involves overseeing all fiscal activities, including financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring the companys financial health and stability. McCabe manages the allocation of capital resources to support infrastructure investments and operational enhancements, critical for a regulated utility. The Chief Financial Officer also engages with investors and financial institutions, communicating the companys financial performance and strategic direction. This leadership position is vital for maintaining investor confidence and securing funding for essential water and wastewater system upgrades. McCabe's oversight extends to risk management and compliance with financial regulations, safeguarding the companys assets and reputation. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic input guides major corporate decisions, aligning financial objectives with the companys mission of providing reliable utility services.

    Angela Votoupal - Divisional Chief Financial Officer & Strategic Business Partner

    Angela Votoupal, the Divisional Chief Financial Officer & Strategic Business Partner at American Water, drives financial performance and strategic initiatives within specific operational divisions. This dual role requires a deep understanding of both financial management and the unique business challenges of each division. Votoupal partners closely with divisional leadership to develop and execute financial plans that align with the companys overall strategic goals. The Strategic Business Partner aspect of the role involves identifying growth opportunities, optimizing operational efficiencies, and mitigating financial risks at the divisional level. Votoupal analyzes market trends and regulatory landscapes to provide actionable financial insights, supporting informed decision-making. This executive ensures that divisional financial strategies contribute directly to the companys broader objectives of delivering essential water and wastewater services. Angela Votoupal's expertise is crucial for translating corporate financial objectives into tangible divisional outcomes.

    David Bowler - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    David Bowler, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at American Water, leads the companys comprehensive financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. This executive role encompasses the management of all financial aspects, including capital markets, treasury functions, and investor relations, ensuring robust financial health for the nation's largest water utility. Bowler directs the financial strategy to support significant infrastructure investments and regulatory compliance across numerous states. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer works to optimize the companys capital structure and enhance shareholder value while maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity. David Bowler's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to meet the growing demand for water and wastewater services and to advance the companys commitment to environmental sustainability. This position is central to guiding American Water's long-term financial trajectory and operational expansion.
    David Bowler

    Michael Doran - Senior Vice President, Deputy, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Health and Safety Officer

    Michael Doran, the Senior Vice President, Deputy, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Health and Safety Officer at American Water, oversees critical operational functions and ensures the highest standards of health and safety across the organization. This multifaceted role involves managing day-to-day operations of water and wastewater systems, ensuring reliable service delivery to millions of customers nationwide. Doran directs efforts to maintain and upgrade essential infrastructure, guaranteeing compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. The Chief Health and Safety Officer component of the role mandates the implementation of comprehensive safety protocols and training programs to protect employees, customers, and the environment. Michael Doran's leadership is instrumental in driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of safety throughout American Water's extensive service territories. This executive's purview ensures the integrity and efficiency of the companys core utility services.

    Carrie Williams - President, American Water Charitable Foundation

    Carrie Williams, the President, American Water Charitable Foundation at American Water, leads the philanthropic arm of the company, focusing on community support and environmental initiatives. This executive role involves setting the strategic direction for the foundation, managing its operations, and overseeing grant-making processes to maximize social impact. Williams works to foster partnerships with non-profit organizations and community stakeholders to address critical needs related to water access, conservation, and education. The President ensures that the foundation's activities align with American Waters corporate social responsibility goals and enhance its positive contribution to the communities it serves. Carrie Williams's leadership drives the foundation's mission to create a positive and lasting difference, reinforcing American Waters commitment beyond its core utility services. This role is vital for strengthening community relations and promoting sustainable practices.

    Robert Ross - President

    Robert Ross, the President at American Water, directs significant operational segments of the company, ensuring the effective delivery of water and wastewater services. This leadership position involves overseeing key business units and driving strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction across various regions. Ross focuses on optimizing the performance of regulated utility operations, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and managing capital improvement programs. The President works closely with other senior leaders to align divisional strategies with the overarching corporate mission of providing essential infrastructure services. Robert Ross's oversight is critical for maintaining the reliability and quality of service that customers depend on, contributing directly to the companys reputation and long-term success. This executive's role is central to the operational integrity of American Water.

    Barry Suits - President Indiana American Water

    Barry Suits, the President Indiana American Water at American Water, leads the companys operations and strategic development within the state of Indiana. This executive role involves direct oversight of all aspects of Indiana American Water's business, including water production, treatment, distribution, and wastewater management. Suits is responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, managing customer relations, and driving infrastructure investments to meet the evolving needs of Indiana communities. The President works to foster strong relationships with local stakeholders, government officials, and regulatory bodies to support the delivery of essential utility services. Barry Suits's leadership ensures that Indiana American Water operates efficiently and effectively, upholding the company's commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater solutions. This position is key to the companys regional presence and service quality.

    Mark McDonough - President

    Mark McDonough, the President at American Water, spearheads critical operational divisions, ensuring the consistent delivery of vital water and wastewater services. This executive role focuses on managing the performance of key business units, driving strategic growth, and enhancing operational excellence across extensive service territories. McDonough oversees the implementation of capital improvement projects and ensures adherence to stringent environmental and safety regulations. The President collaborates with cross-functional teams to optimize service delivery, improve customer experiences, and maintain the integrity of essential infrastructure. Mark McDonough's leadership is pivotal in advancing American Waters mission to provide reliable and sustainable utility solutions, contributing significantly to the health and economic vitality of the communities served. This role is fundamental to the companys operational success and public trust.

    Melanie Kennedy - Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer

    Melanie Kennedy, the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at American Water, directs all human capital strategies and initiatives to support the companys mission. This executive role involves developing and implementing programs for talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a skilled and engaged workforce. Kennedy oversees the cultivation of a positive and inclusive corporate culture that aligns with American Waters commitment to public service and environmental stewardship. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a key part in organizational design and change management, supporting the companys growth and operational evolution across its many states. Melanie Kennedy's leadership ensures that American Water attracts, retains, and develops the talent necessary to operate and innovate in the essential water and wastewater utility sector. This position is fundamental to building and sustaining a high-performing organization.

    Ronnie Graves - Life Member

    Ronnie Graves, the Life Member at American Water, represents a distinguished and ongoing connection to the company's legacy and strategic direction. This designation signifies a profound and enduring contribution to American Water's history and operational philosophy. Graves provides invaluable historical perspective and institutional knowledge, informing current leadership on long-term strategic considerations and foundational principles. The role of Life Member involves offering counsel and guidance based on extensive experience with the water and wastewater utility sector. Ronnie Graves's continued association ensures that the company's core values and commitment to public service remain central to its operations. This unique position contributes to maintaining continuity and upholding the company's reputation for reliability and integrity across its extensive service areas.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding American Water Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads American Water?
    American Water is led by James McCabe (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Angela Votoupal (Divisional Chief Financial Officer & Strategic Business Partner) and David Bowler (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of American Water’s executive team?
    The executive team of American Water includes leaders such as James McCabe (Chief Financial Officer), Angela Votoupal (Divisional Chief Financial Officer & Strategic Business Partner), David Bowler (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does American Water have?
    American Water has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in American Water’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of American Water includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Divisional Chief Financial Officer & Strategic Business Partner, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President, Deputy, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Health and Safety Officer, President, American Water Charitable Foundation.