The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) is seeking a seasoned and strategic transit leader to lead the Authority into the future.
MATA is seeking a Chief Operating Officer for Transit Operations to lead the agency’s core service delivery functions during a critical period of operational strengthening and system modernization.
This executive will serve as a key member of the leadership team, working in close partnership with the Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directors to enhance system performance, improve service reliability, and elevate the overall rider experience. The COO for Transit Operations will bring disciplined operational leadership to a highly visible public service organization that plays an essential role in the economic vitality and daily life of the Memphis region. This is an opportunity for a proven operator—someone who understands the realities of running a complex, service-driven system and is motivated by both the challenge and the impact of public transportation.
MATA is at a pivotal inflection point. The organization is actively working to enhance operational consistency, stabilize and develop its workforce, and improve service delivery outcomes in a competitive and resource-constrained environment.
The COO will play a central role in advancing several key priorities, including improving on-time performance and service reliability, strengthening workforce recruitment and retention, ensuring rigorous adherence to safety and regulatory standards, and elevating the customer experience. In parallel, the agency is pursuing modernization initiatives related to fleet, infrastructure, and technology—requiring operational leadership that is both pragmatic and forward-looking.
MATA has engaged POLIHIRE to lead the search process to identify the COO for Transit Operations. If you are prepared for this opportunity, please submit a cover letter outlining your qualifications and your resume to: MATA_COO@polihire.com. The target salary for this position is $200,000.