Valley Water Executive and Leadership Team

Olga Steele, the Chief Executive Officer at Valley Water, directs the overarching strategic vision for the integrated water resources system. Steele manages the delivery of clean, safe water and flood protection services across the region. By aligning departmental goals with the long-term mission of the district, the Chief Executive Officer ensures operational excellence and regulatory compliance. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to address complex environmental challenges and infrastructure needs. Olga Steele maintains a focus on sustainable water supply reliability, driving initiatives that protect the community from flood risks while preserving local stream ecosystems. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation to meet the evolving demands of Santa Clara County. Ultimately, Steele secures the future of regional water security through proactive planning and decisive executive action.

Theresa Chinte, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Executive Officer at Valley Water, coordinates executive operations and facilitates high-level decision-making processes. Chinte manages the daily workflow of the executive office, ensuring that strategic priorities receive immediate attention and resources. By streamlining communication between the Chief Executive Officer and department heads, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Executive Officer maintains organizational alignment on critical water resource projects. This role involves preparing briefings, managing complex schedules, and overseeing special initiatives that impact the district's long-term mission. Theresa Chinte drives efficiency by identifying operational bottlenecks and implementing solutions that enhance executive productivity. Through the management of internal administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Executive Officer supports the successful execution of flood protection and water supply strategies. Ultimately, Chinte ensures that the executive team remains focused on achieving core organizational objectives.

Darin Taylor, the Chief Financial Officer at Valley Water, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the entire water resources system. Taylor oversees capital improvement funding, rate setting, and long-term financial planning to support essential flood protection and water supply projects. By implementing robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer ensures transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. This role involves coordinating with external auditors and internal departments to maintain fiscal stability while funding critical infrastructure upgrades. Darin Taylor drives the development of economic strategies that allow the district to navigate complex market conditions and regulatory requirements. Through precise financial forecasting and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer supports the broader mission of providing reliable water services. Ultimately, Taylor maintains the financial foundation necessary for the district to execute its core environmental and public safety mandates.

Tina Yoke, the Chief Operating Officer, Information Technology & Administrative Services at Valley Water, directs the digital infrastructure and internal support systems. Yoke manages the cybersecurity, data management, and administrative frameworks that enable the district to function effectively. By modernizing technology platforms, the Chief Operating Officer, Information Technology & Administrative Services ensures that water monitoring and flood protection systems remain resilient and secure. This role involves overseeing the procurement, human resources, and facility management functions that underpin daily operations. Tina Yoke drives digital transformation initiatives that improve data accessibility for decision-makers across the organization. Through the integration of advanced IT solutions, the Chief Operating Officer, Information Technology & Administrative Services enhances the efficiency of administrative processes. Ultimately, Yoke provides the technological and operational backbone required to support the district's mission of delivering safe water and environmental stewardship.

Christopher Hakes, the Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds at Valley Water, directs the management and protection of local stream ecosystems and flood control infrastructure. Hakes oversees the maintenance of dams, reservoirs, and flood protection channels to ensure public safety and water supply reliability. By implementing comprehensive watershed management plans, the Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds mitigates flood risks while preserving the natural habitat of local streams. This role involves coordinating field operations, engineering projects, and environmental compliance efforts across the county. Christopher Hakes drives the execution of capital projects designed to improve the resilience of the water resources system against climate-related challenges. Through the management of complex watershed assets, the Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds ensures that the district meets its environmental and safety obligations. Ultimately, Hakes protects the community by maintaining the integrity of the region's vital water infrastructure.

Cheryl Togami, the Division External Affairs Chief of Staff at Valley Water, directs communication strategies and stakeholder engagement initiatives. Togami manages the flow of information between the district and the public, ensuring transparency regarding water supply, flood protection, and stream stewardship. By fostering strong relationships with community leaders and government agencies, the Division External Affairs Chief of Staff builds support for critical infrastructure projects. This leadership role involves crafting messaging that clarifies the district's role in maintaining regional water safety. Cheryl Togami coordinates outreach efforts that educate the public on conservation and environmental protection. Through the management of external partnerships, the Division External Affairs Chief of Staff aligns public perception with the operational goals of the organization. Ultimately, Togami strengthens the district's reputation by facilitating clear, consistent, and effective communication across all regional platforms.