General Manager

General Manager

Join the Board of Directors at Central Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Central Electric) to lead the operations, maintenance, and strategic advancement of the cooperative based in southeastern South Dakota. The role becomes available in July 2026 upon the retirement of the current long‑term General Manager and reports directly to the Board of Directors.

Central Electric is a financially sound, not‑for‑profit electric distribution cooperative serving roughly 5,000 member‑owners. The cooperative’s headquarters is in Mitchell, South Dakota, and covers eight counties with 4,480 miles of overhead and underground distribution lines. The company employs 43 professionals, generates annual revenues of $40 million, and manages a net utility plant valued at $88 million.

The service area lies between Sioux Falls and the Missouri River. Mitchell offers top‑quality healthcare, education, and recreational opportunities, making it an attractive place to live and work.

The successful candidate will possess exceptional interpersonal abilities, a deep commitment to member‑owners, and proven leadership, communication, management, and technology competencies. The role requires collaboration with the nine‑member elected Board of Directors and positive leadership of a staff of 43.

• Communication – Clearly conveys ideas, asks clarifying questions, answers questions, engages others, and actively participates in meetings.
• Leadership – Shows confidence, supports an inclusive culture, stays composed, promotes engagement, accountability, and improvement.
• Problem Solving – Applies creative thinking, accurately assesses information, proposes options, resolves issues, collaborates, and reasons logically.
• Interpersonal Skills – Handles conflicts constructively, maintains confidentiality, listens well, manages emotions, and welcomes new ideas.
• Relationships and Teamwork – Balances individual and team roles, supports staff, involves others in planning and decision‑making, values feedback and diversity, boosts morale, and encourages group success.
• Strategic Thinking – Aligns strategies with cooperative strengths, analyzes competition, identifies threats and opportunities, and adapts to change.
• Judgment and Decision Making – Makes timely decisions, applies sound judgment, explains decisions, and involves others as needed.
• Change Management – Manages workplace changes, creates practical plans, communicates clearly, engages teams, supports transitions, and reviews outcomes.
• Professionalism – Acts tactfully, stays calm under pressure, respects others, accepts responsibility, and honors commitments.

• Comprehensive understanding of electric utility operations is required.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in a rural electric cooperative, electric utility, or closely related organization is preferred.
• Relevant post‑secondary degree desired; equivalent education/experience may be considered.
• Proficiency in computer technology, including Microsoft Office and enterprise information systems.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel required.

Central Electric offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include a retirement pension plan through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), matching contributions to a 401(k) plan, medical and life insurance, paid holidays, and generous PTO. The General Manager is expected to reside within 20 miles of the headquarters; relocation assistance may be available.

Submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three professional references through the online application system. Inquiries may be directed to Liz Avery (jobsp). Applications will be accepted through February 15, 2026, with final interviews anticipated in mid‑April.

Central Electric Cooperative, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer.