Great Lakes Water Authority Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Great Lakes Water Authority has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and labor relations.

Dedicated to ensuring safe and reliable water and wastewater services, Great Lakes Water Authority drives public health and economic vitality through robust infrastructure management and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Great Lakes Water Authority

  • Chief Executive Officer - Susan McCormick
  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Kim Garland
  • Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services - Constance Delling
  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Nicolette Bateson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Cheryl Porter
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Terry Daniel
  • President of Local Local 2920 - Juan Moore
  • Susan McCormick - Chief Executive Officer

    Susan McCormick, the Chief Executive Officer at Great Lakes Water Authority, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for the organization. McCormick guides the executive team in executing the mission of providing essential water and wastewater services across Michigan. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in water management technologies and ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations. McCormick's strategic vision shapes the authority's long-term goals, focusing on infrastructure resilience and sustainable practices. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the board's objectives and champions the organization's commitment to public health and economic development within the region. Susan McCormick's influence extends to stakeholder relations, building strong partnerships with governmental bodies and community organizations to advance the authority's objectives.
    Susan McCormick

    Kim Garland - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Kim Garland, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Great Lakes Water Authority, assists the Chief Financial Officer in managing the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Garland's responsibilities include overseeing budgeting processes, financial reporting, and ensuring fiscal accountability across all departments. This executive function supports the development and implementation of financial policies that align with the authority's long-term objectives. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer plays a key role in financial analysis, identifying opportunities for cost savings and revenue enhancement. Kim Garland's expertise contributes to maintaining the financial stability required for critical infrastructure investments and ongoing operational needs. This leadership position is essential for the sound financial management of the authority's resources.

    Constance Delling - Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services

    Constance Delling, the Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services at Great Lakes Water Authority, directs financial operations specifically for service-related activities. Delling manages the financial aspects of service delivery, ensuring profitability and efficiency in all service contracts and engagements. This critical role involves developing financial models, managing accounts, and overseeing the financial performance of service divisions. The Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services ensures that financial strategies support the expansion and sustainability of the authority's service offerings. Constance Delling's focus on financial management within services is integral to the organization's overall economic strategy and operational success. This position drives financial discipline in a key area of the authority's business.

    Nicolette Bateson - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Nicolette Bateson, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Great Lakes Water Authority, holds ultimate responsibility for the organization's financial strategy and fiscal management. Bateson oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, treasury functions, and financial planning, ensuring the fiscal health of the authority. This executive leadership position involves managing investments, securing financing for major capital projects, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements, safeguarding the authority's assets. Nicolette Bateson's strategic financial guidance is crucial for supporting the authority's mission of providing reliable water and wastewater services and driving economic development in Michigan. Bateson's role is central to the organization's long-term viability and growth.
    Nicolette Bateson

    Cheryl Porter - Chief Operating Officer

    Cheryl Porter, the Chief Operating Officer at Great Lakes Water Authority, oversees the day-to-day operational activities critical to service delivery. Porter manages the complex network of water treatment, distribution, and wastewater collection systems, ensuring efficiency and reliability. This executive function involves optimizing resource allocation and implementing best practices across all operational departments. The Chief Operating Officer drives initiatives aimed at enhancing system performance and mitigating risks associated with aging infrastructure. Porter's leadership focuses on maintaining the integrity of the water supply and ensuring the effective processing of wastewater, directly impacting public health and environmental quality in Michigan. Cheryl Porter's operational oversight is fundamental to the authority's mission of providing uninterrupted service to its customers.

    Terry Daniel - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Terry Daniel, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Great Lakes Water Authority, supports the Chief Operating Officer in managing extensive operational functions. Daniel focuses on specific areas of operational improvement and execution, ensuring that strategic directives are translated into tangible results. This role involves close collaboration with various operational teams to enhance service delivery and maintain infrastructure integrity across the service territory. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer plays a crucial part in overseeing capital improvement projects and ensuring their timely and budget-conscious completion. Terry Daniel's responsibilities include driving operational efficiencies and supporting the implementation of new technologies to modernize water and wastewater systems. This leadership position is vital for maintaining the high standards of service expected by the communities served.

    Juan Moore - President of Local Local 2920

    Juan Moore, the President of Local Local 2920 at Great Lakes Water Authority, represents the interests of unionized employees within the organization. Moore leads labor relations efforts, advocating for fair working conditions, competitive compensation, and employee benefits. This leadership role involves negotiating collective bargaining agreements and fostering a collaborative relationship between labor and management. The President of Local Local 2920 ensures that the union's objectives are met while supporting the operational goals of the authority. Juan Moore's influence is critical in maintaining a productive and harmonious work environment, essential for the consistent delivery of water and wastewater services. This position bridges the gap between employee representation and organizational management.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Great Lakes Water Authority Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Great Lakes Water Authority?
    Great Lakes Water Authority is led by Susan McCormick (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kim Garland (Deputy Chief Financial Officer) and Constance Delling (Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services).
    Who is part of Great Lakes Water Authority’s executive team?
    The executive team of Great Lakes Water Authority includes leaders such as Susan McCormick (Chief Executive Officer), Kim Garland (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Constance Delling (Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Great Lakes Water Authority have?
    Great Lakes Water Authority has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Great Lakes Water Authority’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Great Lakes Water Authority includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Finance Management Professional & Chief Financial Officer, Services, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Chief Operating Officer.