GRU Executive and Leadership Team

Edward Bielarski, the Chief Executive Officer at GRU, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the multi-service utility provider. Bielarski oversees the integration of water, electricity, natural gas, telecommunications, and wastewater services, ensuring seamless delivery to Gainesville, Florida, and surrounding areas. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in utility management and driving sustainable practices across all divisions. By aligning departmental goals with the company's mission, Edward Bielarski ensures GRU meets the evolving needs of its customer base. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to financial oversight, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder relations, solidifying GRU's position as a vital community asset. Bielarski's strategic direction guides GRU's expansion and service enhancement initiatives, directly impacting regional infrastructure development and economic stability.

Walter Banks, the Chief Information Officer at GRU, architects the technology infrastructure and digital strategy for the utility provider. Banks manages the implementation and maintenance of IT systems supporting water, electricity, natural gas, telecommunications, and wastewater operations across Gainesville, Florida, and its environs. This critical function ensures data integrity, cybersecurity, and the efficient flow of information essential for service delivery. By optimizing technological resources, Walter Banks enhances operational efficiency and supports GRU's commitment to reliable utility provision. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include overseeing network security, developing digital transformation initiatives, and ensuring technological alignment with business objectives. Banks's leadership drives GRU's digital evolution, enabling advanced service capabilities and robust operational resilience.

Cheryl McBride, the Chief People Officer at GRU, leads human capital strategy and organizational development for the utility services provider. McBride cultivates a robust workforce culture, managing talent acquisition, employee engagement, and professional development initiatives across GRU's diverse operations in Gainesville, Florida, and adjacent regions. This role is pivotal in ensuring a skilled and motivated team supports the delivery of water, electricity, natural gas, telecommunications, and wastewater services. By fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, Cheryl McBride enhances employee retention and operational effectiveness. The Chief People Officer's oversight includes compensation and benefits, labor relations, and ensuring compliance with employment regulations. McBride's focus on people empowers GRU's employees, directly contributing to the consistent and reliable provision of essential utilities.

Derek Perry, the General Counsel & Chief Legal Officer at GRU, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the multi-service utility provider. Perry manages regulatory compliance, contract negotiations, and risk mitigation strategies essential for GRU's operations in Gainesville, Florida, and surrounding territories. This position ensures adherence to all applicable laws and regulations governing water, electricity, natural gas, telecommunications, and wastewater services. By safeguarding GRU's legal interests, Derek Perry supports the company's commitment to reliable and responsible utility provision. The General Counsel & Chief Legal Officer's responsibilities encompass litigation management, corporate governance, and advising executive leadership on legal implications of strategic decisions. Perry's expertise is fundamental to GRU's sustained operational integrity and community trust.