Sean T. Kelly, Ted J. Kosowski picked to lead major Departments at the MWRD
Two leaders at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) have been promoted to fill major roles.
Sean T. Kelly was named the Director of Information Technology (IT). As Director, his responsibilities include oversight of the MWRD’s IT strategy, policy, support, and operational efficiency. Kelly will spearhead critical initiatives, leveraging emerging technologies, and implementing robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard the MWRD’s internal infrastructure. He will work closely with cross-functional teams to enhance the overall IT capabilities and drive digital transformation. Kelly previously led IT Infrastructure and Operations at the MWRD, focusing on enterprise planning, cybersecurity, and strategic alignment.”
Kelly has more than 25 years of information technology experience, both in private and public sectors, with a strong committed background in the education and utility sectors. Kelly actively participates in local, state, and national information management forums and advisory committees in technology and cybersecurity across the water/wastewater sector.
Kelly graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and has a Master of Science in Information Systems & Instructional Technology from DePaul University. He holds several technical and professional certifications including ITIL Foundation and ITIL Practitioner, and an Illinois State Board of Education License in Career and Technical Education (CTE).
“I am very honored to have been selected to fill this important role,” Kelly said. “I enjoy collaborating with a talented team of IT professionals, harnessing technology’s potential to achieve greater operational efficiencies, and contributing to the MWRD’s continued success.”
Ted J. Kosowski was selected to serve as the MWRD’s Director of Human Resources (HR). The HR Department’s mission is to provide effective management by developing and implementing policies, programs and services that align with the MWRD’s Strategic Plan and focusing on inclusive work practices and recruiting strategies that results in a workforce that reflects the diversity of the MWRD service area.
Kosowski has over 27 years of experience in managing various human resources and safety functions in the service, manufacturing, and transportation industries. He began his career at the MWRD as a Personnel Assistant in 1997 and was promoted into various roles within the Department since that time. Kosowski spent the majority of his MWRD career managing Employee Relations activities and now leads the six sections of the Department: Employee Selection; Employee Development; Classification, Compensation, and Benefits; Risk Management; Safety; and Employee Relations. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from DePaul University in Chicago.
“I am honored to lead the Human Resources Department,” said Kosowski. “I look forward to continuing to work alongside the talented HR team and partnering with all employees to ensure we continue to build a workplace that thrives on respect, diversity, and collaboration. Together, we will strengthen the MWRD’s position as a leading utility and create an environment where every employee can achieve their full potential.”
“I have worked with Sean and Ted for the past few years and both have extensive experience and a proven track record in their respective industries,” said President Kari K. Steele. “Sean is an accomplished leader and has consistently driven organizational success through the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, streamlining IT operations, and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Ted’s long-term commitment to the MWRD will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing our staffing roadmap, ensuring we continue to reach the best and brightest minds to work at the MWRD.”