Brian A. Perkovich is a seasoned executive whose career spans more than three decades in civil engineering, public utilities, and large-scale infrastructure leadership. Guided by a belief that responsible stewardship and forward-thinking strategy can transform communities, he has built a reputation as an influential leader capable of navigating complex operational landscapes while inspiring organizations toward long-term sustainability. His professional journey reflects both engineering precision and executive vision, shaped by years of hands-on experience in water resource management and the governance of one of the largest wastewater utilities in the nation.
Born with a natural inclination for problem-solving and a passion for building systems that serve the public good, Brian began his career in civil engineering shortly after earning his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Early in his career, he developed a foundation in project management, environmental compliance, and technical operations—skills that would later form the backbone of his executive leadership style. His commitment to excellence and ability to bridge technical depth with practical execution quickly set him apart as a standout contributor in the engineering and public works sector.
Over the next several years, Brian’s professional path evolved through increasingly complex operational roles, including his time as Operations Manager at multiple major water reclamation facilities. From managing a 12 MGD facility in Hanover Park to overseeing a 354 MGD operation at the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant in Chicago, he demonstrated a deep understanding of plant operations, resource allocation, and workforce leadership. Each facility he guided benefited from his unwavering dedication to operational integrity and process improvement—hallmarks that would define his future leadership at the enterprise level.
As Brian advanced to senior management roles within the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, he became known not only for his technical acumen but also for his calm, thoughtful, and strategic approach to organizational leadership. In his position as Assistant Director of Maintenance and Operations, he oversaw an expansive range of divisions, including waterways control, collection systems, solids management, site remediation, administrative functions, and asset management. His ability to manage multimillion-dollar budgets, unite diverse operational teams, and implement data-driven strategies reinforced his growing reputation as a leader equipped to drive lasting institutional progress.
Brian’s appointment as Executive Director in 2018 marked a defining chapter in his distinguished career. Leading an organization with a $1.4 billion budget, more than 1,800 employees, and a service area supporting over five million people, he stepped into a role demanding both strength and sensitivity. His tenure was characterized by resilience, innovation, and steadfast leadership—qualities that were tested and proven during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his guidance, the organization maintained operational continuity, protected essential workers, and upheld public trust during one of the most uncertain periods in modern history.
Beyond crisis management, Brian spearheaded the development of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan that provided quantifiable goals across the agency. His vision emphasized modernization, sustainability, community engagement, and organizational transparency. He believed deeply in empowering teams through clear direction and collaborative problem-solving, and his strategic framework continues to shape the organization’s trajectory long after his transition from full-time leadership. Brian also cultivated strong relationships with elected officials, board members, and community stakeholders, reinforcing the District’s role as a cornerstone of public health and environmental stewardship.
Parallel to his executive responsibilities, Brian expanded his influence within the national water sector by serving on several prominent boards, including the National Association of Cleanwater Agencies, the Water Research Foundation, and Current. His participation in these organizations reflects a commitment to advancing national infrastructure priorities, promoting scientific research, and ensuring that the water and wastewater sectors evolve in alignment with emerging challenges and technological advancements. His contributions have positioned him as a respected voice in industry-wide dialogue and policy development.
After more than 31 years of full-time service, Brian transitioned into the second phase of his career—one centered on board service, advisory leadership, and strategic consulting. His desire to continue shaping the industry stems not from necessity, but from a genuine passion for mentorship, progress, and community impact. He brings a unique blend of executive experience, operational insight, and engineering expertise to every organization he serves, making him a strategic addition to companies seeking governance maturity, operational resilience, or long-term planning excellence.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, Brian is committed to civic engagement and local leadership. As a Commissioner and later President of the Board of Commissioners for the Western Springs Park District, he continues to contribute to community development with the same level of dedication he brought to large-scale public infrastructure. His personal interests—running, fitness, and continuous learning—reflect his belief in balance, discipline, and lifelong growth. International exposure in France and Germany, along with years of cross-functional collaboration, further enrich his global perspective and leadership versatility.
Today, Brian remains grounded in his core values: integrity, service, and purposeful leadership. His journey embodies the philosophy that technical expertise becomes infinitely more powerful when paired with compassion, clarity, and the courage to lead through change. Whether guiding operational teams, shaping industry strategy, or advising organizations at the board level, Brian continues to exemplify the qualities of a leader who is both deeply experienced and deeply human.
Character:
Brian approaches leadership with humility and a strong moral compass, consistently prioritizing the well-being of his team and community. He demonstrates unwavering dedication to public service, always seeking to make decisions that reflect integrity and long-term responsibility. His character is defined by resilience, authenticity, and a calm steadiness that inspires trust in those around him.
Knowledge:
His extensive background in civil engineering, public utilities, and executive management showcases a depth of knowledge earned through decades of hands-on leadership. Brian’s expertise spans technical operations, financial oversight, and organizational strategy, enabling him to navigate complex challenges with confidence. He continuously expands his understanding of emerging technologies and industry trends to better guide the organizations he serves.
Strategic:
Brian possesses an exceptional ability to see both the immediate needs and the long-term vision of an organization, creating pathways that align people, processes, and purpose. His experience developing multi-year strategic plans demonstrates his talent for defining priorities and translating them into measurable outcomes. He approaches every challenge with a blend of analytical rigor and creative thinking, ensuring thoughtful and effective decision-making.
Communication:
An articulate and compelling communicator who brings clarity to complex ideas, whether addressing public hearings, boardrooms, or internal teams. Brian’s communication style emphasizes transparency and collaboration, fostering strong relationships across all levels of an organization. His ability to listen deeply and respond thoughtfully reinforces his reputation as a leader who values dialogue and shared understanding.
