Danvers Electric Director Takes GM Job at Reading Light Plant

Danvers Electric Utility Director Coleen O’Brien is leaving the department to take a job as the general manager at the Reading Municipal Light Department. 

O’Brien was hired by Danvers in 1995 as the Director of Engineering and Operations and then was appointed as the Electric Utility Director in 1998.

Unlike at the Peabody or Reading light plants, which operate independently from the city or town as public utilities, Danvers Electric is a town department and the town manager serves as the general manager.

O'Brien, who graduated from Northeastern University, officially accepted the new job on June 26. RMLD not only serves Reading, but also North Reading, Wilmington and Lynnfield center. Her last day in Danvers is June 12.

A farewell party for O'Brien was held last week and she was recognized for making great strides with the municipal utility service during her 18 years in town.

O'Brien told the Salem News the department was "poorly maintained" and lacking in many areas when she came on board. Town Manager Wayne Marquis credited her with turning around the department into a highly rated municipal utility within Massachusetts.

O'Brien said her departure from Danvers is "bittersweet," recalling many fond memories over the years.

“I am excited to accept the challenge to lead RMLD and be a part of the successes that RMLD deserves as one of the best municipal utilities in Massachusetts,” said O'Brien in a press release.

"I am committed to continuing a strong investment in the qualifications and safety of the RMLD employees, the operation of an efficient and reliable electric system, providing competitive rate structures, excellent customer service and the mindfulness of the future of energy,” she said.

O'Brien is expected to begin on July 15.