Chief Operating Officer

Knoxville Area Transit - Knoxville, TN

Full-time - Executive

Knoxville, TN

Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation

About the position

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Knoxville Area Transit is responsible for overseeing and providing leadership to the operating functions of the transit system. This role focuses on optimizing organizational effectiveness, improving performance, safety, and fostering teamwork. The COO will implement strategic initiatives, manage operational functions, and ensure compliance with regulations while promoting a collaborative work culture.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to fixed route service, ADA Paratransit, planning, maintenance, safety, and training.
• Manage scheduling and service planning functions; monitor system operations and identify opportunities for improvements.
• Implement, monitor, and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) for operating and safety functions.
• Oversee the development and implementation of safety rules, policies, and procedures; maintain accountability for safety performance.
• Identify and address operational deficiencies; recommend changes to operating policies and procedures.
• Work closely with the Director of Maintenance to support operational service needs.
• Ensure compliance with the collective bargaining agreement.
• Oversee successful charter service per FTA guidelines.
• Support the administration and monitoring of the Transit Asset Management (TAM) plan and the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Serve as a key member of the senior management team to establish organizational goals and strategies.
• Maintain effective communications with the KTA Board, City Council, and other agencies; represent KAT in public meetings.
• Establish policies that promote company culture and vision while maintaining positive workforce relations.
• Ensure compliance with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Title VI, and Drug and Alcohol policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Planning, or a related field.
• Minimum 8-10 years of public transit experience, including planning, operations, and management.
• Minimum of five years of supervisory experience.
• Thorough understanding of public transportation rules and regulations.
• Proven success in organizational transformation for improved efficiency and effectiveness.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong understanding of budgeting and financial management.
• Knowledge of operations and maintenance practices, including bus and ADA paratransit.

Nice-to-haves

• Customer-focused, innovative, strategic thinker and team player.
• Familiarity with technology integration and data-driven decision-making.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on process optimization.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity Employer
• Professional development opportunities