TheRide Finalizes CEO Contract with Matt Carpenter

April 17, 2015

The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) has named Matt Carpenter as its new chief executive officer.  Carpenter, a Tennessee native who has more than 15 years of professional experience in the transit industry, including eight as the successful CEO of Strathcona County Transit in Sherwood Park, Alberta, has agreed on a salary of $160,000 and will begin work at TheRide on June 1.

“Mr. Carpenter brings with him excellent management and communication skills and a forward-thinking mindset.  These, as well as his deep connection with the greater Ann Arbor and Metro Detroit areas, will be very helpful as TheRide continues to work to meet the growing needs of our unique community,” said TheRide Board Chair Charles Griffith.

In making the announcement, Griffith commended Bob Guenzel, who served as TheRide’s Interim CEO following Michael Ford’s departure in October, 2014.  Guenzel, a successful senior management executive, attorney, former Washtenaw County Administrator, will aid in Carpenter’s transition.

Prior to his work in the transit industry, Matt Carpenter worked for the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) in Detroit, and holds a Master in Urban Planning from the University of Michigan.  Carpenter is a dynamic and award-winning leader who has helped communities plan and implement major transit improvements; such as bus network expansions, paratransit reforms, rapid transit studies, and even double-decker buses.  He believes respect, compassion, integrity, and open communication are the hallmarks of a great team.

In anticipation of his new position, Carpenter said, “I am passionate about transit, and am excited about this opportunity to return to the greater Ann Arbor area and assist the community in achieving its vision for public transportation.”