- Kimberly Schalek Downes joins New Jersey American Water as Vice President of Business Development, Government Affairs, and External Affairs.
- New appointments include Chelsea Kulp as Director of Communications and External Affairs, and Lee Mueller as Director of Business Development.
- These strategic appointments are part of a broader commitment to leadership development and community engagement.
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (AWK, Financial), has announced the appointment of Kimberly Schalek Downes as Vice President of Business Development, Government Affairs, and External Affairs. In her new role, Schalek Downes will oversee strategic outreach, legislative engagement, and growth initiatives throughout New Jersey. With over 35 years of experience in government relations and public policy, she previously served as President and CEO of Salmon Ventures Limited, a consulting firm she founded in 2003.
Mark McDonough, President of New Jersey American Water, welcomed Schalek Downes to the leadership team, highlighting her expertise and commitment to community engagement as vital to the company's mission at this critical juncture.
In addition to Schalek Downes' appointment, Chelsea Kulp has been promoted to Director of Communications and External Affairs. Kulp, who has been with the company since 2015, will spearhead strategic communications, digital engagement, and community outreach. Her previous roles and contributions, such as the Lead Service Line Replacement Program, have earned the company top customer satisfaction rankings.
Lee Mueller takes on the role of Director of Business Development, bringing a decade of public affairs experience with federal agencies. Since joining New Jersey American Water in 2019, Mueller has played a key role in communications and stakeholder engagement in both New York and New Jersey.
The appointments reflect New Jersey American Water's ongoing dedication to leadership advancement, community partnerships, and finding innovative solutions to water and wastewater challenges across the state. Together, these leaders will work to enhance infrastructure, support conservation, and build stakeholder trust throughout New Jersey.
New Jersey American Water continues to be the largest regulated water utility in the state, delivering reliable, safe, and affordable water services to approximately 2.9 million people.
