Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Join our team at Bi-State Development and help shape the future of transportation in St. Louis!

We are excited to announce that Bi-State Development is seeking candidates for the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic organization, and we are looking for a visionary leader to guide our continued growth and success.

As a public transit organization committed to driving economic development, we're looking for someone who is passionate about creating a more connected and sustainable community.

Ready to make a real impact? We offer a competitive starting salary range of $201,090 to $268,125 and an excellent benefits package, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Can you answer yes to the following questions? If so, consider this opportunity.

• Do you see yourself thriving in a culture that prioritizes team member focus, diversity, equity, inclusion, customer first, accountability, fiscal responsibility, and safety and security?

• Do you have a passion for developing and implementing innovative services and programs?

• Are you excited about the prospect of leading and managing a large-scale public transit division?

Vison, Mission, & Values

• Our Vision: A more connected, thriving region

• Our Mission: Improve the quality of life in the St. Louis region by delivering excellent public services and dynamic regional solutions

• Our Values: Team Member Focus; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Customer First; Accountability; Fiscal Responsibility; Safety and Security

The Role

The COO will shape and execute operational strategy, focusing on enhancing efficiency and providing executive leadership across the Metro Transit Division, which includes MetroBus, MetroLink, Call-A-Ride/Paratransit, Transit Assets, and more. This role emphasizes accountability, inclusion, safety, and customer service.

Responsibilities

• Communication & Engagement: Promote organizational goals through effective stakeholder communication.
• Leadership: Foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Compliance: Ensure adherence to policies and regulations.
• Operational Oversight: Direct transit unit activities and implement performance measures.
• Operational Strategy: Develop strategies to support company objectives.
• Service Improvement: Initiate projects to enhance passenger services and satisfaction.
• Safety & Security: Formulate policies for safety and attendance.
• Emergency Preparedness: Plan for unexpected events.
• Budget Management: Control operating and capital budgets.
• Labor Relations: Oversee union negotiations and maintain labor relations.
• Community Relations: Collaborate with stakeholders for service improvements.
• Public Representation: Represent the organization publicly.
• Risk Management: Assess and mitigate operational risks

• Visionary leadership to motivate others; able to effectively lead a team.
• Eye for talent; ability to attract, retain, and develop.
• Collaborative partnership building.
• Strong emotional intelligence and executive presence; resilient and remains calm under pressure.
• Engagement-driven climate creation.
• Financial acumen for decision-making and budgetary management.
• Innovation cultivation for organizational success.
• Results-driven mindset.
• Risk-taking and courage to make difficult decisions or implement change.
• Comprehensive knowledge of transit operations and regulatory compliance.

Education

Experience

Degree: Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s Degree preferred.

Years: Ten years or more in progressively responsible management roles

Field: Transportation, Business/Public Administration, Engineering, or related field

Field: Executive Management and Bus/Light Rail operations or maintenance.

Bi-State Development is committed to providing an Equal Employment Opportunity experience for all employees, applicants, vendors and customers with an environment free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.