The Atlanta Regional Commission today announced that Katherine Zitsch has been promoted to Deputy Chief Operating Officer.

In this role, Zitsch will be responsible for coordinating special initiatives that span multiple departments. She will also collaborate with Chief Operating Officer Mike Alexander to develop and implement operational strategies that drive the agency forward across a range of program areas, including transportation planning, community development, aging & independence services, workforce development, natural resources, mobility services, data & analytics, and homeland security. Zitsch will continue to serve ARC as a senior policy advisor on water issues for the Atlanta region.

For the past 10 years, Zitsch has led ARC’s Natural Resources program and served as Director of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District, which is housed at ARC. She spearheaded efforts to reduce water usage across the Atlanta region and safeguard metro Atlanta’s access to a safe and secure water supply.

“Katherine is a remarkable leader who possesses a strategic mindset, a talent for building robust partnerships, and outstanding program execution skills,” said ARC Executive Director & CEO Anna Roach. “She is exceptionally equipped to lead our agency to new heights as we pursue our vision of ‘One Great Region.'”

Zitsch holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and a Master of Science degree in Environmental Systems Engineering, both from Clemson University. She is a registered Professional Engineer as well as a Board-Certified Environmental Engineer through the American Academy of Environmental Engineers.

Her significant contributions to the water supply field have been recognized with the esteemed 2020 G. Warren Fuller Award for Distinguished Service from the American Water Works Association. This prestigious accolade acknowledges her outstanding engineering expertise, diplomatic acumen, and unwavering leadership.