Elizabeth Fazio Hale, JD, LLM
Current Role: General Manager/CEO at Gulf Coast Authority
Executive Summary
Elizabeth Fazio Hale has been leading the Gulf Coast Authority (GCA) as General Manager and CEO since November 17, 2020. Under her leadership, GCA continues to be a prominent entity in water and wastewater management in Texas. Hale's extensive background in politics, law, finance, and a profound interest in environmental and economic aspects of water management position her uniquely to steer the organization towards future milestones.
Educational Background
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- Master of Laws (LLM)
Career Progression
- Assistant General Manager, GCA: Joined in May 2019.
- General Manager/CEO, GCA: Assumed position in November 2020.
Professional Experience
Before her tenure at GCA, Elizabeth Fazio Hale directed the Natural Resources Committee under Rep. Allan Ritter (R-Nederland) in the Texas House of Representatives, where she cultivated a deep interest in water-related issues. This role was foundational in her career, leading to her invitation to join GCA as Assistant General Manager.
Leadership and Management
As General Manager/CEO, Hale emphasizes leveraging her team's skills, giving them necessary tools and empowering them through strategic initiatives. She outlines her primary role as pushing GCA to "grow with purpose" to better serve the environment, economy, and customer communities.
Strategic Vision
- Five-Year Strategic Planning: Aligns GCA's development phases with the state's cyclical water planning process.
- Long-Term Vision (50-year horizon): Focuses on infrastructural development, employee visioning, mission alignment, and core values.
- Innovation in Water Management: Key to navigating regulatory uncertainties and advancing GCA’s mission in these changing times.
Significant Achievements
- Texas State Water Implementation Fund: Contributed to the creation of a financing mechanism enabling over $9 billion in funding for state-wide water supply projects since its inception in 2013.
- GCA's Continued Leadership: Steered the organization through strategic milestones, maintaining its leadership position in combining environmental sustainability with economic development.
Professional Affiliations
- Vice President: Gulf Coast Industrial Development Authority
- Treasurer: Texas Conservation Fund
- Board Member:
- Texas Water Foundation
- Texas Water Conservation Association
- TWCA – Risk Management Fund
- Galveston Bay Council
- Economic Alliance – Houston Port Region’s legislative committee
- Economic Development Alliance for Brazoria County
Public Engagements & Recognitions
- Public Speaking: Moderated significant panels, including discussions on water-related innovations and regulations.
- Awards & Recognition: Under her leadership, GCA received the "Water Heroes Award" acknowledging their commitment amidst hardships.
Personal Insight
Hale is dedicated to her duties beyond GCA, taking on the responsibility of caring for her disabled sister and managing familial responsibilities with her husband and two children.
Contact Details
- LinkedIn: [Elizabeth Fazio Hale](https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-fazio-hale)
- GCA Website: [Gulf Coast Authority](https://www.gcatx.org/fazio-hale-takes-helm-as-gca-general-manager-ceo/)
- Phone: (281) 488-4115
- Email: info@gcatx.org
Conclusion
Elizabeth Fazio Hale’s combination of legal expertise, financial acumen, and dedicated service in environmental management underscores her capability to lead GCA effectively. Her strategic vision and accomplishments mark her as a pivotal figure in advancing water and wastewater management in Texas.
