Mid South Transport, Inc. · 3 months ago
Chief Operations Officer
Memphis, Tennessee
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
15+ years expMid South Transport, Inc. is seeking a Chief Operations Officer (COO) to provide executive leadership and strategic oversight for all operational divisions of the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA). The COO will ensure safe, reliable, efficient, and customer-focused service delivery across all transit modes while overseeing operational planning, performance management, and compliance with regulatory standards.
LogisticsSalesService IndustryTransportation
Responsibilities
Provides executive leadership, direction, and coordination for all MATA transit operations, including Fixed Route, Paratransit (MATAplus), Maintenance, Facilities, and Safety and Security divisions
Implements operational strategies that enhance efficiency, service reliability, and overall customer satisfaction while aligning with MATA’s mission and strategic plan
Develops, monitors, and evaluates key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational success, service quality, and ridership growth
Ensures compliance with all FTA, DOT, TDOT, and OSHA regulations governing public transportation operations and safety standards
Leads and directs senior operational managers in setting goals, resolving service delivery challenges, and implementing performance improvement initiatives
Oversees the development and management of operating budgets for assigned departments, ensuring fiscal accountability and cost-effective service delivery
Coordinates with Human Resources and Labor Relations to manage staffing, labor agreements, and employee relations across operational units
Directs system safety, security, and emergency preparedness activities to ensure full regulatory compliance and operational readiness
Provides executive-level oversight for capital projects related to operations, maintenance, and facility upgrades
Implements innovative operational technologies and systems to improve service performance and efficiency
Promotes collaboration and communication among departments to strengthen operational alignment and support organizational goals
Represents MATA at public meetings, community events, and professional transportation forums as needed
Prepares and presents operational reports, updates, and strategic recommendations to the CEO and Board of Commissioners
Fosters a work environment that encourages employee engagement, development, and accountability
Performs other related duties as assigned to support the mission and strategic objectives of MATA
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Transportation Management, or a related field is required
Minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible management experience in public transit or transportation operations, including at least seven (7) years in executive leadership
Strong knowledge of FTA, TDOT, and federal compliance requirements governing public transportation systems
Proven ability to lead large, complex teams and oversee multimodal transit operations
Demonstrated experience managing operational budgets, service performance, and efficiency improvement programs
Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills with the ability to build consensus and foster organizational collaboration
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and operational reporting tools
Must comply with all MATA policies, including Drug and Alcohol Policy and Safety Protocols
Preferred
A master's degree is preferred
Company
Mid South Transport, Inc.
Mid South Transport, Inc. was established in Memphis, Tennessee in 1982. Our company is a registered Smartway Transport Partner and is a U.S.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Kent Long
COO
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