Sarah Macdonald

As Director of Strategic Communications Officer for Western Municipal Water District I serve a dynamic organization that directly impacts the quality of life for our customers and the region. I am proud to be a part of an innovative, results-driven team with a vision of being the definitive leader in water and sewer services, upholding the highest level of stakeholder trust while delivering a best-in-class customer experience.

In my role, I am responsible for a comprehensive communications and governmental affairs program including external and internal communications, public outreach and engagement, strategic planning, crisis communications, and information sharing across a service area of nearly 1 million rate payers.

In addition to my service with Western, I currently serve on the board of directors for the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) as Communications Chair. As a board member, my goal is to advance the role and value of the public communicator within their agency and communities served.

Prior to joining Western, I effectively led and elevated the City of San Marcos’ communications program and was proud to be a part of a leadership team responsible for a nine percent increase in resident satisfaction and a 420 percent increase in digital engagement. To top it off, I have also had experience working for or with nearly every level of government. Most notably, I served Yolo County Probation as a key project manager assisting with public safety realignment.

I hold a Bachelors of Arts in Political Science from University California at Santa Barbara and a Master's in Public Policy and Administration from Sacramento State University.

Years served: 2017-2021

Positions served: Communications Chair, Vice President - Awards