The Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA), Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD), Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and Citilink have announced additions and changes to their respective leadership teams.

VVTA names next COO

VVTA has named Esteban Rodriguez its new COO. Rodriguez brings more than 38 years of public transportation experience and a broad background in transit operations, safety, fleet maintenance, regulatory compliance, strategic planning and special projects throughout Southern California.

During his career, Rodriguez has held senior leadership roles overseeing fixed-route, paratransit and demand-response services, with a strong focus on operational performance, safety, reliability and customer service. His experience includes managing multimillion-dollar transportation contracts, labor relations, procurement initiatives, fleet transitions, infrastructure development projects and cross-functional operational teams.

“Esteban’s extensive operational leadership and proven ability to lead complex transportation programs will be a tremendous asset to VVTA,” said VVTA CEO Rod Goldman. “He brings a strong commitment to safety, innovation and service excellence, along with the strategic perspective needed to help us strengthen operations and continue enhancing transit services for the communities we serve.”

He has led multidisciplinary teams and complex initiatives involving requirements established by the Federal Transit Administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the ADA, the California Highway Patrol and the California Department of Motor Vehicles. He has also supported fleet modernization, zero-emission transportation, workforce development, contract management and continuous operational improvement.

“Esteban’s extensive experience and commitment to safe, reliable and customer-focused transportation make him an excellent addition to VVTA’s leadership team,” said VVTA Board Chair Liz Becerra. “As our agency continues to grow and prepare for the future, his leadership will help ensure VVTA remains responsive to the evolving transportation needs of the communities we serve.”

Denver RTD names chief communications and engagement officer (CCEO)

Denver RTD has named Candace Smith as its CCEO, effective Sept. 8. Smith most recently served as senior associate vice chancellor for public affairs and strategic communications at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she oversaw media relations, crisis and issues management, executive and strategic communications and editorial strategy while advising university leadership on reputation, stakeholder engagement and complex communications challenges.

Smith has than 25 years of experience spanning higher education, public transportation and journalism. Denver RTD says she has built and led high-performing communications teams, developed integrated reputation and marketing strategies and served as a trusted adviser to senior leaders navigating both opportunities and crises. Her career has included leadership roles at the University of Colorado Boulder, George Washington University and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, as well as a journalism career in Washington, D.C., and New York.

“Candace’s extensive background in public affairs and strategic communications will strengthen [Denver] RTD’s ability to engage the communities served with transparency and purpose. Her leadership will reinforce the agency’s commitment to delivering a reliable, customer centered experience as [Denver] RTD explores transit options that will best serve the needs of customers and stakeholders in the long-term,” said Denver RTD General Manager and CEO Debra Johnson. “I look forward to the positive impact she will have on advancing [Denver] RTD’s mission of making lives better through connections.”

DART names next chief audit officer

DART has named Mamatha Sparks as the agency's new chief audit officer. Reporting directly to the DART Board of Directors, Sparks brings more than 20 years of experience in public accounting, government auditing and risk management. She will lead DART’s efforts to modernize and bring transparency to the agency by guiding audit processes and creating effective departmental strategies.

"The team at DART are thrilled to welcome Mamatha Sparks.” said DART Board of Directors Chair Randall Bryant. “She brings a wealth of experience to this role with a track record of success; which is critical to enhance DART’s goal of building a nimble organization with a focus on operational integrity. Her leadership will not only provide decisive oversight on our internal and external processes, but also amplify DART’s impact on the region.”

Sparks previously worked at the City of Dallas Office of the City Auditor, where she oversaw complex audits involving information technology, procurement and contract administration, public safety and revenue as she advanced through progressively responsible leadership roles.

“I am honored to begin this new chapter with DART and continue their mission to redefine transportation for the North Texas region,” Sparks said. “I am excited to be able to apply my skillset to ensure DART remains strong, efficient and resilient as we work together to create best-in-class mobility experiences.”

Sparks replaces previous Chief Audit Officer Chris Koloc, who worked at DART for nearly 20 years before retiring earlier this year.

Citilink to begin search for new CEO

Citilink CEO John Metzinger will be leaving the agency in mid-October.

“On behalf of the Citilink Board of Directors, I want to sincerely thank John for his leadership and dedication over the past five years,” said Citilink Board Chair Konrad Urberg. “Under his leadership, Citilink has strengthened its foundation, advanced important initiatives and positioned itself well for the future. John’s commitment to our employees, our riders and the Fort Wayne community has helped strengthen Citilink and advance our mission of providing safe, reliable and accessible public transportation. We are grateful for his many contributions and wish him continued success as he begins an exciting new chapter in his career.”

Metzinger will remain with the organization through mid-October to support a thoughtful and orderly transition.

“It has been a privilege to lead Citilink and work alongside such a dedicated and capable team,” Metzinger said. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and confident in our leadership team’s ability to maintain momentum and advance the important work already underway. I remain fully committed to supporting our employees, riders and board and helping ensure a smooth transition.”

The Citilink Board of Directors are working to establish interim leadership in advance of Metzinger’s departure. The board and Citilink’s leadership team will continue developing a transition plan that maintains organizational continuity and builds on the priorities and strategic work already well underway. The agency says additional information regarding the leadership transition and governance process will be shared as it becomes available.