Among his other duties, Beutner will lead the search for a "permanent" general manager for the DWP.
Beutner will also oversee the DWP's "green" agenda, including integrating renewable energy sources into the power supply, and preparing the city for the commercial launch of electric vehicles, scheduled for later this year.
Beutner will also be responsible for implementing a plan to reduce the city's reliance on imported water.
Beutner has a long resume.
He was Villaraigosa's first deputy mayor, and chief executive for economic and business policy.
Beutner was co-founder of a global financial services company and former Wall Street trader and venture capitalist.
City News Service contributed to this report.