Craig O'Connell currently serves as Vice President of Operations at Veolia North America, headquartered in the New York City Metropolitan Area. He possesses over 26 years of professional experience specializing in Engineering, Operations, and Management within the civil industry. Over his career, O'Connell has demonstrated leadership over large and diverse operational teams, consistently delivering measurable outcomes in complex operational environments.
His role as Vice President involves managing extensive operational functions across multiple business units within Veolia North America, which is a key player in environmental services, specifically focusing on water, waste, and energy management. O'Connell’s expertise aligns strongly with civil infrastructure and utility operations, contributing to advancing the company’s objectives in sustainability and operational efficiency.
In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Craig O'Connell has participated on prominent industry Operations Panels, notably in New York State regulatory proceedings related to Veolia Water New York, Inc. He has been recognized as an expert contributor during utility rate cases and public service commission hearings, reflecting his role in shaping operational strategy and regulatory compliance within the water services sector.
His educational background includes studies at Purdue University, which complements his technical and managerial skills in environmental and civil engineering disciplines.
Craig O’Connell’s accumulated operational knowledge and regulatory engagement position him as a pivotal figure in Veolia’s North American operations, particularly in addressing civil infrastructure challenges and driving operational excellence through regulatory navigation and team leadership.
Notable Industry Involvements and Panels
- Participated as a panelist on the Operations Panel in New York State’s utility rate cases, providing insights on operational matters alongside other senior leaders within Veolia.
- Engagement in discussions at industry conferences related to water environment regulation and operational challenges, though specific presentations or publications were not detailed.
- His leadership experience encompasses oversight of large-scale projects and operational management, influencing water treatment and distribution projects at a regional and national level.
Expertise and Professional Focus Areas
- Engineering and Operational Management within civil and environmental sectors.
- Leading teams responsible for delivery of water supply, treatment, and distribution services.
- Navigating regulatory environments affecting water utilities, including interface with public utility commissions and environmental authorities.
- Strategic oversight of operational performance, resource management, and infrastructure project execution.
His continued role at Veolia North America as Vice President of Operations underscores his deep integration into the organizational leadership driving sustainable and efficient environmental services across critical infrastructure sectors.
