Ross Phillips was named Nov. 20 the interim general manager of the Lower Colorado River Authority, effective Jan. 1.

He takes over for Becky Motal, who is stepping down after 27 combined years of experience at LCRA, which is responsible for managing the Colorado River water supply and electricity for more than 40 utilities.

Phillips is one of two deputy managers for LCRA. The board continues to seek a permanent replacement for Motal, who retires Dec. 31.

"This is an important job, and the search for the right candidate shouldn't be rushed," LCRA board Chairman Tim Timmerman said in a statement. "[Phillips] has had an outstanding career at LCRA and has earned the respect of the staff, the board and our customers. We are very appreciative that Ross has agreed to assume responsibilities of the interim job to ensure a smooth transition of leadership."

Phillips started at LCRA in 1990 as a computer programmer, eventually being promoted operations manager over the agency's electrical transmission services. He eventually took over as executive manager of transmission services before being named April 1 as deputy general manager.

The application deadline to permanently fill the position passed Nov. 15.