Vice President, Marketing & Communications - Transdev U.S.
Description
Vice President, Marketing & Communications — Transdev U.S.
Location: Lombard (Chicago), IL
Transdev is the leading private-sector operator of public transportation in the U.S., with 30,000 employees across more than 300 locations connecting millions of passengers every year.
We’re seeking an accomplished Vice President, Marketing & Communications to lead national marketing, branding, and communications strategy for Transdev U.S. Reporting directly to the CEO, this executive will shape how Transdev’s story is told—to clients, riders, employees, and the communities we serve.
This leader will direct all aspects of external marketing, brand positioning, internal communications, and media relations, while serving as the company’s lead strategist for crisis and reputation management. The role will also work closely with the US Executive Committee and global Transdev Group to ensure alignment with enterprise-wide priorities and global brand standards.
The ideal candidate is a visionary storyteller and strategist, someone equally skilled in managing major incidents, inspiring employees, and promoting a brand dedicated to connecting communities through safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive U.S. marketing and communications strategy aligned with Transdev’s Purpose and strategic plan.
- Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and partner with the US Executive Committee on key initiatives requiring communication, stakeholder engagement, and brand visibility.
- Ensure messaging and branding consistently reinforce Transdev’s commitments to safety, innovation, and service excellence.
External Marketing & Brand Management
- Lead all marketing, branding, and external communications to position Transdev as the partner of choice in the mobility and transportation sector.
- Strengthening brand presence through storytelling that showcases innovation, reliability, and community partnership.
- Develop integrated marketing campaigns to support business development, new contract launches, and rider engagement.
- Manage media relations, advertising, social media, and public affairs to promote Transdev’s leadership in safe, sustainable transportation.
- Ensure consistent brand standards across vehicles, facilities, digital channels, and client-facing materials in partnership with operations teams.
Internal Communications & Employee Engagement
- In partnership with the CHRO and COO, develop and execute a national internal communications strategy that connects and engages 30,000 employees across 300+ locations.
- Partner with HR, Safety, and Operations leaders to communicate company priorities, reinforce cultural values, and build alignment around Transdev’s Purpose.
- Enhance digital and field communication channels (intranet, digital signage, mobile tools, newsletters, etc.) to reach frontline and field-based employees effectively.
- Create communication toolkits and templates that enable leaders and managers to communicate consistently and effectively across the organization.
- Lead storytelling initiatives that celebrate employees, promote inclusion, and highlight operational excellence.
Collaboration with Transdev Group
- Member of Global Communications Council and functionally reporting to the Group Chief Communications Officer.
- Serve as the primary liaison with Transdev Group’s Global Marketing & Communications team in France to align global campaigns, brand positioning, and key messages.
- Contribute to the Group’s global storytelling and sustainability communication efforts while adapting them for U.S. audiences.
- Represent Transdev U.S. in cross-regional collaboration initiatives.
Team Leadership & Operations
- Lead and develop a high-performing Marketing & Communications team encompassing brand, media, digital, and internal communications specialists.
- Establish performance metrics for communication effectiveness, brand awareness, employee engagement, and media impact.
- Manage departmental budgets, agencies, and external vendor relationships.
- Promote a data-driven, results-oriented culture focused on transparency and continuous improvement.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field required, Master’s preferred.
- 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in marketing and communications, including 5+ years in a senior or VP-level role.
- Proven expertise in crisis communications, brand management, and internal communications across large, distributed, or regulated organizations (transportation, infrastructure, logistics, or utilities preferred).
- Strong experience partnering with CEOs and executive teams to craft and deliver strategic messaging.
- Exceptional writing, storytelling, and executive communication skills.
- Proven ability to lead teams, manage agencies, and drive measurable outcomes.
Key Competencies:
- Strategic Brand Leadership
- Crisis and Reputation Management
- Media Relations & Public Affairs
- Employee Engagement & Internal Communication
- Storytelling & Executive Messaging
- Collaboration & Influence
- Team Leadership & Development
- Digital & Data-Driven Communication Strategy
Location & Travel
Preference for the position to be based at Transdev US’s headquarters in Lombard (Chicago), Illinois. Travel requirement is approximately 30% or as business needs require.
Compensation & Benefits:
- This bonus-eligible position has a base salary range of $180k to $230k per year.
- Paid vacation, sick days and holidays.
- 401(k) retirement plan, medical, dental and vision, life insurance, short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. The
physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions upon request.
Transdev is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or other legally protected status.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions upon request.
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