Erie Water Works CEO and CFO Paul Vojtek will retire early next year, according to an announcement Friday.

Vojtek has spent more than 20 years leading Water Works. His retirement will be effect Jan. 6.

During his career, Erie Water Works saw the purchase of the Millcreek Township water system, fluoridation of Erie’s public water supply, extension of water service to McKean Township and Borough and more than $350M in capital improvements.

“When I reflect on all we’ve accomplished as an organization, I’m proud to have led this incredible team over the past 20 years,” said Vojtek in a statement.

After commissioning a firm for a nationwide search and reviewing candidates, the Erie Water Works board of directors picked Craig Palmer to succeed Vojtek.

Palmer spent nine years as a consulting engineer before becoming Water Works senior manager of engineering services more than 17 years ago.