For Immediate Release: October 21, 2025

Contact: press@phila.gov

Benjamin C. Jewell Appointed Commissioner of the Philadelphia Water Department 

Jewell will take responsibility for managing all units and a staff of approximately 2,200 at the Water Department

PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced today the appointment of the next leader of the Philadelphia Water Department, Benjamin C. Jewell. Commissioner Jewell’s appointment as Water Commissioner was effective last week.

Following the departure of former Commissioner Randy Hayman in July, Jewell was appointed Acting Water Commissioner. Previously, he served as the First Deputy Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner of Operations, and Director of Wastewater Operations with the Water Department.

As Water Commissioner, Jewell will take responsibility for managing all units and a staff of approximately 2,200 at the Water Department, which provides integrated water, wastewater, and stormwater services for the City of Philadelphia as well as ten suburban wholesale customers.

Water Department commissioner responsibilities include oversight of three drinking water treatment plants, three wastewater treatment plants, and a vast system of water mains, sewers, pump stations, inlets, outfalls, fire hydrants and other critical infrastructure. The commissioner will also lead the department’s strategy to address mounting regulatory obligations and direct the department’s capital and operating budgets totaling approximately $1.5 billion annually.

“I am delighted to appoint Ben to this critical position after his almost 20 years of exemplary service with the Philadelphia Water Department,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “The health, safety, and well-being of residents and visitors is the Parker Administration’s top priority. With Ben’s strong track record of delivering operational excellence, I am confident that the Water Department will continue to provide everyone in Philadelphia with top quality tap water and further our legacy as a regional champion in the protection and enhancement of one of our most precious resources. I look forward to working with Commissioner Jewell to continue our mission to make Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in America, with access to economic opportunity for all.”

“I am deeply honored to serve as Commissioner of the Philadelphia Water Department,” said Benjamin C. Jewell, Philadelphia Water Commissioner. “Every day, I am inspired by the passion and dedication of our teams who work tirelessly to provide critical services to our city. Whether it’s responding to emergencies or managing our vast infrastructure, my colleagues consistently step up to protect Philadelphia. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead such a committed group of public servants, and I look forward to working together to deliver on Mayor Parker’s vision and provide safe, reliable water service while preparing our system for the challenges ahead.”

Jewell holds a degree in Environmental Engineering from Northwestern University and has worked with PWD in various roles since 2007, including as an Environmental Engineer, an Engineering Supervisor, and as a Manager of Collection System Operations.

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