Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Connect Transit is the primary public transit system serving Bloomington-Normal and McLean County, committed to providing safe, reliable transportation that enriches lives and strengthens the community. We value collaboration, integrity, and excellence in service. Our dedicated team works to ensure that all residents and visitors have convenient access to affordable transit options, supporting economic growth and fostering a sense of connection throughout the region.

By continually investing in innovative technology, modern vehicles, and customer-focused initiatives, Connect Transit strives to improve mobility and enhance the overall quality of life for everyone in the community.

About the Role

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and is responsible for the overall performance, coordination, and strategic direction of Connect Transit's core operational functions, including Transportation, Service Delivery, Maintenance & Facilities, Safety & Training, and Technology Services.

This position provides organization-wide leadership to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient service delivery aligned with the agency's strategic business plan. The COO translates organizational goals into operational execution, drives continuous improvement, and ensures that all departments operate cohesively to meet service, financial, and customer experience objectives.

The COO works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Trustees, and executive leadership to develop and implement short- and long-term strategies, optimize organizational performance, and foster a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and innovation.

A strong emphasis is placed on leadership development, labor relations, regulatory compliance, and data-driven decision-making to ensure high-quality service and long-term sustainability.

Essential Duties

• Provide executive leadership and oversight of all operational departments, including Transportation, Service Delivery, Maintenance & Facilities, Safety & Training, and Technology Services.
• Translate the agency's strategic business plan into actionable operational initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals related to service quality, efficiency, safety, and financial sustainability.
• Direct and coordinate day-to-day operations to ensure safe, reliable, and customer-focused transit service delivery.
• Establish performance expectations, metrics, and accountability systems across departments to monitor operational effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.
• Lead workforce planning, employee development, and succession planning across operational departments.
• Foster a strong organizational culture centered on safety, collaboration, accountability, and customer service.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including FTA, IDOT, ADA, and labor requirements.
• Partner with the CEO and executive team to develop and manage operating and capital budgets; monitor performance and identify cost efficiencies and revenue opportunities.
• Support and lead initiatives to improve service delivery, including route performance, service design, and customer experience enhancements.
• Oversee labor relations strategies, including administration of collective bargaining agreements, negotiations support, and grievance resolution.
• Collaborate with leadership to identify and implement technology, innovation, and data-driven solutions to improve operational reliability and performance.
• Lead safety initiatives and ensure system-wide adherence to safety policies, training programs, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate cross-departmental efforts to support major projects, including capital programs, facility development, and service expansion.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, union leadership, community partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Serve as a proxy for the CEO, as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Transportation, Engineering, or a…