Office of the Executive Director
The executive director, who is hired by the commissioners, is responsible for managing the agency's day-to-day operations.
Mark R. Vickery, P.G., Executive Director
Zak Covar, Deputy Executive Director
Staff: Address/Phone/Fax
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| Mark R. Vickery | Zak Covar |
The executive director, who is hired by the commissioners, is responsible for managing the agency’s day-to-day operations.
Major responsibilities include directing operations of approximately 2,900 employees in 17 statewide offices, implementing commission policies, making recommendations to the commissioners about contested permitting and enforcement matters, and approving uncontested permit applications and registrations.
The deputy executive director serves as the chief operating officer to assist the executive director in the administration of the agency.
See also:
Executive Director's Agendas
Three divisions report directly to the executive director:
Agency Communications
Intergovernmental Relations
Small Business and Environmental Assistance
Six office clusters report to the executive director. Each office is headed by a deputy director. These deputies are responsible for administering the agency’s regulatory and administrative programs.
Office of Administrative Services
Chief Engineer's Office
Office of Compliance and Enforcement
Office of Legal Services
Office of Permitting and Registration
Office of Water
Agency Communications
Andy Saenz, Director
Staff: Address/Phone/Fax
The Agency Communications Division works to continuously improve and streamline the delivery of print and Web information to the public and within the agency. This division coordinates the agency response to all media inquiries, prepares and distributes agency news releases, and coordinates news conferences. The division also includes the agency library, and a publishing staff that coordinates, produces, and distributes regulatory and general informational materials, both print and Web.
See also:
News Releases
Natural Outlook
Publications Catalog
Library
Intergovernmental Relations
Jim Harrison, Director
Staff: Address/Phone/Fax
The Intergovernmental Relations Division (IGR) coordinates the agency response to congressional and state legislative inquiries and constituent issues, legislative initiatives, and interim committee studies affecting the agency. IGR also coordinates the agency’s testimony and participation during legislative sessions and ensures that the Legislature is informed of the TCEQ’s initiatives and activities. IGR serves as a clearinghouse for border-affairs information for the TCEQ and coordinates agency comments on national policy issues.
See also:
Reports to the 81st Texas Legislature
Small Business and Environmental Assistance
Brian Christian, Director
Staff: Address/Phone/Fax
The Small Business and Environmental Assistance Division (SBEA) provides confidential compliance assistance on air, water, and waste regulations to small businesses and small local governments; works with regulated entities, industries, and manufacturers to implement pollution prevention, recycling, and innovative environmental programs; and educates the public and the regulated community on rules and environmental issues. SBEA services include:
- a confidential compliance assistance hot line (800-447-2827) for small businesses and local governments;
- online tools and resources for small businesses and local governments;
- free on-site technical assistance and other resources for regulatory compliance;
- assistance with pollution prevention planning and reporting;
- seminars and workshops on regulations and pollution prevention;
- information on innovative practices and technologies such as environmental management systems and clean school buses;
- environmental education resources for schools and educators;
- awards and special events to recognize environmental leadership;
- recycling and disposal opportunities in urban, rural, and agricultural communities (including materials such as computer equipment);
- resources for individuals, communities, schools, and businesses that want to Take Care of Texas; and
- voluntary programs, advisory committees, and partnerships encouraging public participation.
