General Manager
Central Montana Electric Power Cooperative
The Board of Directors of Central Montana Electric Power Cooperative headquartered in Great Falls, MT seeks a member focused leader with proven strategic leadership and consensus building expertise, outstanding interpersonal communication skills and a strong desire to positively influence and motivate others. Industry leadership and commitment to cooperative values will set you apart from other candidates.
About CMEPC
The Central Montana Electric Power Cooperative (Central) is a nonprofit, member-driven organization that represents and advocates for 8 purchasing distribution cooperatives.
Central plays an active role in Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), MidWest Electric Consumers, Western States Power Corporation and the Montana Electric Cooperative Association along with related organizations, advocating for both the interests of its member electric cooperatives and related organizations to ensure the organizations are strong and work towards long term reliable, affordable, electricity supply.
Central supplies 100% of the power supply to its eight purchasing distribution member cooperatives, with a combination of all requirements contracts for seven and partial supply for the 8th. The supply is from WAPA’s Firm Electricity Supply contract, with all supplemental requirements (in addition to WAPA), from Basin Electric. Roughly half the supply is from WAPA.
The GM reports to an 8-member board, and works closely with its member system Managers.
The Ideal Candidate
Leadership Competencies:
· Ability to Lead Change and Manage Risk: Identify and actively manage change and risk throughout the organization
· Vision and Strategic Orientation: Takes a broad scale, long-term view, that focuses on the future needs of the organization and its members
· Member Focus: Focuses self and the organization on the needs of its members
· Analytical Thinking and Decision Making: Thinks systematically, conceptually, and analytically to determine effective solutions
· Understanding on Financial Issues: Has a good understanding of the key financial opportunities as well as financial risks and budget process
· Exceptional communication skills, both formally and informally: Listens, relates, and expresses oneself in a manner that is effective while supporting mutual understanding
· Ability to motivate and positively influence others: Persuades and motivates others towards an outcome consistent with the organization’s mission, vision, and values
· Relationship and teambuilding experience: Creates and fosters constructive working relationships and cohesive teams
· Integrity and Courage: Makes decisions and acts consistently with values, professional standards, and the broader interests of the organization
Experience and Expertise:
· Knowledge of the electric industry
· Regional power supply and legislative understanding
· Ability to work as a team member at all levels
· Ability to work alone and be self-driven for the benefit of the organization
· An understanding and appreciation of cooperative values
· Demonstrated integrity and ethics are essential
RESPONSIBILITIES
· Work with affiliated organizations representing the members interests
· Perform or cause to perform monthly billing for the power supply to its members
· Work with contracted accountant to maintain the financials of the organization
· Manage the day-to-day needs of the organization
· Prepare and host 6 Manager and Board meetings per year and one annual meeting
· Upon request, greater detail of the position and its responsibilities will be supplied
Our Location
Central and the Montana Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) share a headquarters, with MECA being the 2/3 owner and Central 1/3. There are dedicated office areas for each, along with common spaces, which provide ample office and meeting facilities. All are located on the bank of the Missouri River in Great Falls, with beautiful views right outside their windows. Nestled in the heart of Montana, Great Falls is a city that blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and small-town charm, making it a fantastic place to call home. With its scenic landscapes, rich history, and tight-knit community, Great Falls offers something for everyone. As a regional economic center, Great Falls has a diverse economy supported by healthcare, agriculture, and a growing small business community.
Located along Interstate 15 and close to Glacier National Park, Great Falls is an excellent home base for exploring Montana and beyond. Its central location offers convenience while retaining the charm of a slower-paced lifestyle. Great Falls is served by the Great Falls International Airport.
The Board will require that the new GM live within the greater Great Falls area. It is the intention that the CEO will have a residence in the area within a reasonable amount of time unless otherwise negotiated with the Board.
Benefits
Central offers excellent pay and benefits including paid vacation leave, sick leave, 401k match and health insurance.
Central Montana is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer. Race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, military, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other applicable status protected by Federal, State or Local law are not taken into account in any employment decision.
Job Description
Please refer to CEO-General_Manager-Job_Description.pdf document.
How to apply:
If interested, please apply to Russ Bloom, Board President, President@cmepc.org with the following: 1) Cover letter, 2) resume and 3) contact information for 3 professional references. Applications must be received by July 28th, 2025.
If you have any questions, please contact Russ Bloom, CMEPC Board President:
Cell # (406)431-0168 or Email President@cmepc.org . All replies are confidential.