American Water maintains corporate governance practices that are aligned with our strategic direction, help to build a safe and inclusive workplace and serve to maintain our
ethical reputation.
Our corporate governance practices include:
- Having a Board of Directors ("Board") that demonstrates high ethical standards;
- Implementing policies and procedures that support effective corporate governance practices and align with the standards of integrity expressed in our Code of Ethics;
- Promoting integrity in our corporate governance, such as by having a substantial majority of independent directors and an independent Board Chair, separate from the CEO;
- Having the Board and its Committees hold executive sessions as needed without management present;
- Helping provide clear lines of accountability for material environmental, corporate compliance, and operational matters, including Board engagement on these topics; and
- Demonstrating transparency and accountability to stakeholders through clear and timely public disclosure.
Our corporate governance structure promotes accountability and integrity across the organization. Our Board of Directors has the following standing committees:
- Audit, Finance and Risk;
- Executive Development and Compensation;
- Nominating/Corporate Governance; and
- Safety, Environmental, Technology and Operations