ECUA Executive Director J. Bruce Woody Retires After 42 Years of Service

The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority's Executive Director J. Bruce Woody has retired after 42 years of public service, including six years leading ECUA and serving its customers.

"Over the past six years, I've had the pleasure of serving ECUA and its customers as executive director, and I'm honored to conclude my career with such an incredible organization," Woody said. "I will always be grateful for my time with ECUA and for those I had the pleasure of serving alongside. ECUA's success would not be possible without the dedicated men and women who provide exceptional service to our customers every day. Thank you to our employees, the ECUA board members and our customers for allowing me to serve you."

Under Woody's leadership, ECUA completed critical infrastructure projects, strengthened its financial position and expanded programs focused on delivering reliable, affordable services to customers across Escambia County. Woody also guided the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of Hurricane Sally while ensuring uninterrupted utility services for customers.

"Bruce Woody's leadership helped position ECUA for long-term success through critical infrastructure investments and strong financial stewardship," ECUA District 5 Board member and chair Kevin Stephens said. "We are grateful for his decades of public service and wish him the very best in retirement."

Don Palmer, ECUA deputy executive director of engineering and environmental services, has been named interim executive director until a permanent executive director is selected.

ECUA extends its best wishes to Bruce Woody during his retirement and thanks him for his service, leadership and lasting impact on ECUA and Escambia County.