JOB FUNCTION: Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Sr. Director of Strategic Programs and Planning serves as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team. This role provides high-level strategic support to the CEO, overseeing agency-wide planning initiatives, cross-departmental coordination, and performance tracking for major organizational projects. The Sr. Director ensures alignment between strategic goals, operational performance, and executive priorities that advance MATA’s mission and long-term objectives. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serves as an extension of the CEO, thinking and operating strategically while representing executive interests across departments and external partnerships.
• Oversees planning and execution of major organizational initiatives, ensuring alignment with MATA’s strategic goals and Board directives.
• Collaborates with executive leaders to identify, prioritize, and implement high-impact programs that drive organizational effectiveness, ridership growth, and community impact.
• Monitors progress toward meeting goals, analyzing data, and sustaining momentum needed to drive initiatives through completion.
• Provides oversight and guidance on project timelines, deliverables, and performance metrics to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
• Acts as a liaison between the CEO, leadership team, and internal or external stakeholders to ensure consistent communication and alignment.
• Supports the CEO with executive reporting, briefing materials, and presentations for internal and external audiences, including the MATA Board of Commissioners.
• Assists in the development and implementation of organizational best practices, change management strategies, and agency-wide policies.
• Tracks and reports progress on agency strategic plans, annual priorities, and special initiatives to maintain operational visibility and transparency.
• Represents the CEO and MATA in meetings, partnerships, and special projects as assigned.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinates executive meetings, ensuring outcomes are documented, tracked, and followed through to completion.
• Reviews management reports and assists in preparing briefings, dashboards, and operational updates for the CEO and Board.
• Collaborates with internal departments to promote effective communication, teamwork, and knowledge sharing across MATA.
• Maintains current knowledge of public transit trends, FTA/DOT compliance standards, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Performs related duties as assigned to support the success of executive initiatives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Seven (7) to ten (10) years of progressively responsible management experience, preferably at the department or division level within a public or transit organization.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, organizational development, and program management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate strategies into actionable objectives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively present to executive leadership and governing boards.
• Demonstrated success in building partnerships and working collaboratively with internal teams, government entities, and community stakeholders.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Technologically proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.
• Must comply with all MATA policies, including Drug and Alcohol Policy and Safety Protocols.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: