Assistant Director, Certification Program

About the role

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is seeking an Assistant Director, Certification Program to manage the DBE and MWDBE certification processes.

Responsibilities

• Aids in the day-to-day management of the DBE Certification unit and processes new applications for DBE certification in accordance with federal regulations.
• Reviews and conducts detailed desk audits of all new DBE certification applications.
• Ensures that managers create comprehensive DBE files for each new DBE certification application.
• Conducts and/or oversees Eligibility Review Meetings for new applications.
• Conducts and/or oversees On-Site Reviews for new applications for DBE certification, as applicable, and for other certifying agencies upon request.
• Conducts and/or oversees On-Site Reviews of the Annual Review Process, as required.
• Conducts and/or oversees Job Site Reviews of new applications when the firm is performing on a contract in the MTA service area.
• Reviews and/or prepares a detailed and comprehensive written certification eligibility evaluation for each new application being processed, recommending a certification determination.
• Processes annual updates/submissions for continued compliance with federal DBE certification eligibility criteria and prepares written certification eligibility evaluation prior to the firm’s annual certification anniversary date.
• Processes Proposals to Remove Certification and Removal of DBE Certification for firms that fail to meet regulatory requirements, and prepares a written evaluation to support the recommendation.
• Maintains MTA DBE certification directory for inclusion in NYSUCP.
• Provides timely updates to NYSUCP on new applications, status of renewals, and annual updates.
• Provides assistance and serves as liaison to NYSUCP partners and the NYS Empire Development, Division of Minority and Women-owned Business Development.
• Prepares comprehensive certification status reports on all pending and certified firms and other monthly management reports as required, in a timely and complete manner.
• Assists and participates in DDCR MWDBE Outreach activities, as required.
• Covers Certification Workshops for prospective MWDBE applicants.
• Supports the MTA’s $54.8 billion capital program by expediting MWBE certification review for minority or woman-owned business enterprises seeking to work directly with the MTA, its agencies, and prime contractors identified on capital projects.
• Aids in reviewing, assigning, and certification determinations rendered by Managers for pending and certified firms.
• Aids in reviewing, assigning, and completing new applications throughout the entire certification review process to ensure applications are processed within 90 days by Managers in compliance with the federal regulatory requirements of 49 CFR Part 26.
• Aids in reviewing, assigning, and completing new applications throughout the entire certification review process to ensure applications are processed within 90 days by Managers in compliance with the federal regulatory requirements of 49 CFR Part 26.
• Assists the Director in ensuring that written denial evaluations and documentation are legally sound and able to withstand challenges in compliance with USDOT federal regulations 49 CFR Part 26.
• Conducts a comprehensive and investigative Eligibility Review Meeting for new applicants seeking DBE certification with the MTA, to gather information relative to the applicant’s compliance with certification eligibility criteria as set forth in the governing federal and state regulations.
• Conducts a site visit to the applicant firm's principal place of business for each new applicant firm, as mandated by governing federal regulations, and prepares a site visit review report for inclusion in the applicant file and for dissemination to transit properties throughout the country, if required.
• Prepares on-site review report for inclusion in applicant’s file and for dissemination to transit properties throughout the country, if required.
• On-site reviews ensure that an applicant is in the location represented and provide an opportunity to interview staff, review original business documents, and determine issues of independence.
• Prepares a comprehensive written evaluation of certification eligibility for each new applicant, analyzing the applicant’s compliance with DBE eligibility criteria as outlined in the governing federal regulations, to ensure that facts support the certification determination rendered and that only bona fide disadvantaged businesses receive DBE certification.
• Reviews and updates annual submissions of certified DBE firms to ensure continued compliance in the DBE Program.
• Assists in any special projects, outreach activities, and development of reports, as may be required.
• Manages inactive certification files for storage in accordance with MTA Records Management Policy.
• Maintains an electronic database of certified DBEs, in accordance with the provisions of NYSUCP, to ensure completeness and accuracy of vendor file information.
• Develops a comprehensive certification file and communicates with qualifying owners to request additional information to complete the application, as required.
• Serves as a resource in referring certified MWDBEs to the mta.info website and external sources for specific procurement opportunities.
• Selects, develops, and motivates personnel within the department.
• Provides career development for subordinates.
• Provides prompt and effective coaching and counseling.
• Responsible for discipline/termination of employees when necessary.
• Reviews the performance of staff.
• Creates a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related major, or an equivalent combination of education from an accredited college and experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 8 years of work experience in M/W/DBE certification, auditing/financial analysis, and/or conducting insurance or fraud investigations, of which at least 4 years are in a managerial role.
• Master’s degree in a related field is preferred.
• A general background in law is preferred, and/or progressively responsible experience in an Affirmative Action, Procurement, or Public Administration position.
• Experience with MWDBE programs is preferred.
• Prior experience conducting investigative review meetings and/or hearings is preferred.
• Knowledge and understanding of federal regulations governing 49 CFR Part 26 is preferred.
• Familiarity with and understanding of public benefit organizations and the operation of MTA and its operating agencies is preferred.
• Working knowledge of the contracting, construction, professional service, and manufacturing and supply industries is preferred.