Chief of Staff Full Time

MTA Metro-North Railroad is a dynamic organization, operating out of the jewel of New York City, Grand Central Terminal. We provide service to over 86.5 million customers, traveling in and out of New York and Connecticut. A subsidiary of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro-North Railroad is one of the busiest commuter railroads in the nation. MTA Metro-North Railroad strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities to its employees.

Position Objective:

Under general direction, the Chief of Staff serves as the principal advisor to the President and provides professional level, operational, policy, and strategy development support. This position will handle the more complex and time-sensitive assignments in the executive office, act as a confidential representative, and perform high-level analytical research and planning duties related to the operations. Formulates policies and planning recommendations to the President and provides guidance and support to executive staff on decisions affecting the organization, strategic direction initiatives, prioritization, integration, and resource application. Ensures that divisional policies and procedures align with corporate vision and ensures business alignment and communication amongst senior staff. In addition, the position is responsible for close coordination and communication with direct reports of the President as well as a liaison to HQ, to ensure that project and program initiatives are successful.

Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership, oversight, and direction, to the direct reports of the President and assist the President in achieving the primary corporate goals, act as a liaison within the company.
• Assist, support, coordinate and supervise the implementation of special projects assigned by the President.
• Provides highly analytical and confidential support to the President on a wide range of matters, including coordinating, managing and/or tracking policy and program development and strategic planning processes and evaluates critical risk factors when making critical business decisions.
• Identifies issues and sources of potential difficulties in department management and operations; develops and evaluates alternatives for action and/or solutions to operational issues; develops internal relationships as necessary. Identifies areas of improvement across the organization and makes actionable recommendations.
• Conducts and/or directs the research, analysis, and preparation of executive reports, summaries, and/or proposals.
• Serve as a strategic lead on high-profile projects, i.e., oversee large, often cross-functional organization-wide projects or initiatives. Analyze, coordinate, and prepare all necessary documentation for high-profile projects. Closely work and collaborate with key stakeholders on these projects.
• Analyzes proposed legislation and reviews analyses prepared by others; evaluates the impact upon operations and drafts policy and procedural recommendations as required. Improve current processes and optimize organizational procedures for efficiency and productivity.
• Oversee the operations needed for of the effective development and distribution of MNR executive level messaging including preparation of MTA Board and Committee materials; progress on MNR’s Strategic Plan, Mission and Vision; departmental and operational initiatives and required employee messaging; employee engagement activities; and in coordination with MTA Headquarters Office of the Customer and the Communications Tower to ensure information is appropriately distributed across all channels in support of an informed and engaged workforce.
• Oversee the preparation and content of presentations/speeches and the board materials that the President will deliver to internal and external audiences.
• Maintain positive relations with the various external constituencies, including labor organizations, consistent with general management objectives and policies.
• Oversee MNR’s interests on all committees governing rail operational and safety-related issues. Ensure MNR’s position on regulations are effectively communicated and advocated in proposed rulemaking.
• Represent the President’s Office as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to plan and conduct complex and sensitive administrative and operational studies.
• Ability to effectively interpret, explain, and apply complex policies, regulations, and procedures to various stakeholders and staff.
• Ability to apply analytical and critical thinking skills as well as draw conclusions and prepare accurate reports of results.
• Ability to manage highly confidential information.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and time management skills with the ability to meet critical deadlines.
• Ability to exercise a high level of independent judgment and decision-making in a changing environment.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgment within established policies and guidelines.
• Excellent organization, planning, management, and coordination skills to plan, direct, control, and implement programs that are required to ensure that Metro-North is complying with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, codes, and ordinances.
• Excellent familiarity with federal, state, local regulations, codes and ordinances, and industry standards pertaining to rail transit operations.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to foster effective teamwork, motivate, and develop staff.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with various Operating and Non-Operating Departments.
• Must be able to work in a high-profile/high-pressure environment.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office and/or comparable applications.
• Must be able to respond on a 24/7 basis and work varying hours as needed.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Transportation, Law, Business, Public Administration, or related field. Demonstrated equivalent experience and/or education may be considered in place of a degree to include an additional four (4) years of experience.
• Minimum ten (10) years progressively responsible experience in a consultative, project management or administrative role in a transportation or similar industry.

The following is/are preferred, but other satisfactory combinations of relevant experience, education, and/or technical credentials will be considered:

• Master’s Degree or JD

Other Information

This position is safety-sensitive and subject to toxicological testing.

According to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MNR drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

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