SJW Group: A New Era of Leadership and Growth

SJW Group (NASDAQ: SJW), one of the nation's largest investor-owned pure-play water and wastewater utilities, has announced a significant leadership transition and executive promotions to drive continued growth and enhance service for its 1.6 million customers nationwide. Effective July 1, 2025, Eric W. Thornburg will retire as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President, with Andrew F. Walters taking the helm as the new CEO. Bruce A. Hauk will serve as President, and Kristen A. Johnson will assume the role of President of the newly formed Shared Services organization. These strategic moves aim to maintain and build upon the legacy of Thornburg, who has led the company for the past eight years and over 40 years in the water industry.

Under Thornburg's tenure, SJW Group experienced transformational growth and operational excellence. He successfully expanded the company's geographic footprint from two states to four, positioning SJW Group as one of the nation's largest investor-owned water utilities. During his leadership, the company delivered tremendous growth in its Texas operations, which have quadrupled in water and wastewater connections since their acquisition in 2006. Most importantly, Thornburg built a national leadership team that collaboratively strengthens and supports the four local utilities under the SJW Group umbrella while enhancing service for customers nationwide.

Walters, the incoming CEO, has played a crucial role in shaping SJW Group's financial and operational strategy as the current Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. With nearly 25 years of experience in the utility sector, Walters has demonstrated exceptional vision, disciplined execution, and a deep commitment to the company's culture of operational excellence and servant leadership. As CEO, Walters will focus on investing in critical infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiencies, and advancing sustainability while keeping affordability and service excellence at the forefront.

Hauk, with nearly 30 years of water utility experience, will serve as President, further strengthening SJW Group's leadership team. As the current Chief Operating Officer, Hauk has been instrumental in driving the company's success and will continue to do so in his new role. Johnson, with nearly 20 years of water utility experience, will lead the newly formed Shared Services organization, centralizing and optimizing support functions to improve efficiency and enhance overall operational effectiveness.

The promotions of Hauk and Johnson, along with Walters' appointment as CEO, reflect SJW Group's commitment to fostering a culture of growth and development from within. These strategic moves will ensure a smooth transition and position the company for long-term success.



As SJW Group enters this new era, investors can expect continued growth and enhanced service for customers nationwide. The company's strong financial performance, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to serving its communities make it an attractive investment opportunity. With a proven track record of success and a talented leadership team at the helm, SJW Group is well-positioned to continue delivering operational excellence and sustainable growth for its customers, employees, and shareholders.