New Jersey American Water, the state’s largest regulated water utility, said Tuesday that Kimberly Schalek Downes joined as vice president-business development, government affairs and external affairs. She will lead the company’s strategic outreach, legislative engagement, and growth efforts across the state. Schalek Downes will oversee the business development, government affairs, and external affairs teams, reporting directly to the company president.
Most recently, she served as president and CEO of Salmon Ventures Limited, a consulting firm she founded in 2003. At SVL, Schalek Downes managed client relationships spanning utility companies, government bodies, and public institutions, and led the creation of the New Jersey Energy Coalition.
New Jersey American Water also announced other promotions within the department:
Chelsea Kulp has been promoted to director of communications and external affairs, where she will lead strategic communications, digital engagement and community outreach across the state. Kulp joined the company in 2015. She was senior manager.
Lee Mueller has been promoted to director of business development. Since joining New Jersey American Water in 2019, Mueller has led communications and stakeholder engagement in both New York and New Jersey.
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, serves about 2.9 million people.
