Aqua America (Aqua) today announced that Craig Blanchette has been named president of its Illinois subsidiary, effective July 1, 2014. Blanchette will succeed Terry Rakocy, who is retiring after more than three decades with the company. In his new role, Blanchette will report to Regional President Rick Fox, and will be responsible for the overall leadership, management and operations of Aqua Illinois.

Craig Blanchette has been named President, Aqua Illinois effective July 1, 2014. (Photo: Business Wi ...

Craig Blanchette has been named President, Aqua Illinois effective July 1, 2014. (Photo: Business Wire)

Blanchette brings 15 years of water and wastewater industry management experience to the role, including more than six years with Aqua Illinois. In his current position as vice president of operations for Aqua Illinois, Blanchette has been responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company’s Illinois water and wastewater assets, which includes systems in 12 counties serving more than 63,000 customers. He previously served as vice president and regional manager of the Kankakee/Will division of Aqua Illinois. Prior to joining Aqua, Blanchette was superintendent of public works, and water and sewer operator for the Village of Manteno, Ill.

“As we continue to position Aqua Illinois to capitalize on the many growth opportunities ahead, strong leadership in the state will be critical,” said Chris Franklin, president, regulated operations for Aqua America. “Craig’s diverse industry experience, and years as an integral member of the Aqua Illinois leadership team make him the perfect candidate to head our Illinois operations. Having worked in both operational and management roles within the industry, Craig is well-positioned to lead the company to future success.”

“As Craig prepares to take on his new role, we also wish to recognize Terry Rakocy, who has been a strong leader at Aqua for more than 33 years,” continued Franklin. “Terry represents what Aqua is all about: hard work, dedication and expertise. Under his leadership, Aqua Illinois has seen tremendous growth, and during his tenure, Terry has played a fundamental role in leading our operations in several other states, including Indiana, Missouri, New Hampshire and Florida. We wish him all the best as he prepares for this next chapter in his life.”

Aqua America is one of the largest U.S.-based, publicly traded water utilities and serves nearly 3 million people in Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, Texas, Illinois, New Jersey, Indiana and Virginia. Aqua America is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol WTR. Visit AquaAmerica.com for more information, or follow Aqua on Facebook at facebook.com/MyAquaAmerica and on Twitter at @MyAquaAmerica.