Los Angeles-base Southwest Water Co. said Friday that Peter J. Moerbeek has resigned as president and chief operating officer.

“Pete has decided to pursue other opportunities after helping Southwest Water through a transition period,” said Chief Executive Mark Swatek in a statement. “He has done a great job over the last 10 years, and Southwest Water has benefited from his leadership and guidance.”

The company also announced that its board of directors elected Swatek as a director and chairman of the board. Swatek was appointed chief executive officer of Southwest Water in April and took office on May 15th.

Swatek succeeds Anton C. Garnier, who remains a director and was appointed executive vice chairman.