Gary B. O’Connell

Gary B. O’Connell comes to the Berkley group with over 50 years of experience in city management, utility operations, and international consulting. He most recently led a regional water and sewer utility serving 85,000 residents with a $45 million budget with the Albemarle County Service Authority. With 30 years as a CEO and 20 years as a COO, his leadership has driven infrastructure development, economic growth, and operational excellence in multiple municipalities. His expertise extends globally, having consulted in leadership and economic development for cities across the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Recognized for his impact, he was named Person of the Year (2009) by Charlottesville Hook and #1 Government Leader of the Year by C’ville Weekly.

His educational background includes a B.A. in Government & Foreign Affairs from Hampden-Sydney College and a Master’s in Public Administration - Urban Management from the University of Tennessee, along with executive training from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Through his career, Gary has combined strategic vision, operational efficiency, and leadership development to enhance communities both locally and internationally.