Tidal Basin hires Tom Lewis as president and chief operating officer

Tidal Basin, a Utica, NY-based emergency and disaster management consulting firm, has hired Tom Lewis as president and chief operating officer.

Lewis’ appointment will help Tidal Basin expand its footprint and work towards an “ambitious” growth trajectory, the firm said in a press release.

Lewis brings more than 35 years of experience in the engineering consulting industry, with a focus on emergency and disaster management, sustainability, and government contracting. He has expertise in strategic and operational leadership, building teams, driving growth, and implementing innovative solutions.

Lewis previously spent four years with WSP, where he served as executive lead for climate, resilience, and sustainability and president of federal programs and logistics. Before that, he spent 28 years at Louis Berger, which was acquired by WSP. During his time at the engineering consultancy, he founded and built out the emergency management, resilience, and disaster services business. Lewis latterly served as president and CEO of US operations at Louis Berger.

He has a juris doctor from Rutgers University and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of Connecticut, as well as a professional engineer designation.

"I am incredibly excited to step into this role and join the growing Tidal Basin family. Working with a team deeply committed to emergency and disaster management services and resilience is an honor," said Lewis. "Together, we will navigate our clients' challenges, champion climate adaptation and sustainability, and positively impact the communities and organizations we serve."

Michael Baker, a national provider of infrastructure consulting, acquired Tidal Basin last year.

Tidal Basin helps organizations, businesses, and governments prepare for, manage, and recover from natural and man-made disasters. Its services include planning, training, and exercises; grants management; portfolio management for funding sources; and software integration support. The firm has seven offices in the US and a location in Puerto Rico.

“Tom brings a depth of experience and leadership that is unparalleled in our industry. His engineering and emergency management background, combined with his strategic vision, proven track record of driving growth, and personality, make him an ideal fit for our Tidal Basin family,” said Daniel Craig, CEO of Tidal Basin.