CHIEF OF STAFF

About the role

The Chief of Staff position is critical in assisting the organization in meeting the mission of mobility. This role supports a transportation authority serving 13 counties, employing over 630 people, and operating 380+ vehicles. The position can be located in York or Harrisburg, PA.

The impact of public transportation extends beyond moving people from point A to point B—it provides access to life-altering experiences. This role drives the Executive Director’s vision, ensuring strategic initiatives are executed while fostering a culture of innovation and stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Champion strategic initiatives aligned with the Authority’s Vision, Mission, and Strategic Plan.
• Partner with the Executive Director to leverage their time, performing duties based on shifting organizational needs.
• Shape and refresh the organizational strategy in partnership with the Leadership Team.
• Develop fluency in key issues and connect them to strategic operations.
• Drive results by aligning with the Executive Director on strategy initiatives, special projects, and events.
• Build alliances with external organizations, stakeholders, and legislators to advocate for sustainable mobility policies.
• Support business units in strategy implementation and risk assessment planning.
• Assist the Executive Director in identifying priorities, aligning time with those priorities, and assessing progress.
• Prioritize issues, engage resources, and ensure timely follow-up.
• Coordinate with the senior leadership team to clarify the Executive Director’s objectives.
• Streamline communication between the Executive Director and internal departments.
• Monitor Key Performance Indicators and facilitate follow-up actions.
• Manage conflicting needs, handle matters proactively, and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Draft and review internal communications under the Executive Director’s name.
• Manage confidential and time-sensitive strategic projects, liaising with Legal, HR, and the Executive Director.
• Identify best practices and improve internal systems with future needs and budget realities in mind.
• Develop thought leadership on emerging practice areas.
• Lead cross-organizational projects through project management, facilitating planning, execution, and process improvement.
• Nurture talent, support succession planning, and address skills gaps.
• Review and improve organizational structure, workflows, and internal processes.
• Support compliance with the Safety Management System (SMS) and Agency Safety Plan (ASP).
• Foster a customer-first focus by coaching and motivating team members.
• Prepare reports, dashboards, and presentations for board-level agendas (4-5 times per year).
• Ensure legal compliance and positive employee relations through consistent communication and feedback.
• Maintain a record-keeping system for procedures, decisions, and documentation.
• Uphold confidentiality, ethical standards, and the organization’s reputation.
• Review critical incidents and policy exceptions with the Executive Director.
• Maintain professional knowledge through workshops, publications, and networking.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, or a related field (required). Master’s degree in Management, Strategy, or a related field (preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in a related leadership position, with a minimum of 3 years in management.
• Understanding of transit systems operations and service areas.
• Knowledge of technical approaches and systems to facilitate goals.
• Highly developed communication, analytical, and diplomacy skills.
• Familiarity with local organizations, community groups, and governing bodies.
• Ability to learn by asking questions and listening actively.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage staff.
• Strong networking, delegation, and media management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications and advanced English grammar, punctuation, and style.
• Ability to analyze business impacts on strategic plans, financial resources, and human resources.
• Strong presentation, facilitation, and active listening skills.
• Problem-solving ability in fast-paced, changing environments.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA.
• Self-motivated, results-oriented, and resilient under high pressure and shifting priorities.
• Strong project management and deadline-driven execution skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for building relationships with executives, staff, and board members.
• Sharp business judgment with the ability to prioritize and work independently.
• High energy, disciplined execution, and professional representation of the Authority.
• Ability to travel for meetings, training, or organizational needs (occasional overnights).
• Nonstandard work hours, including overtime, weekends, and varied shifts.
• Acceptable driving record and background verification per organizational standards.
• Regular attendance and punctuality.

Qualifications

• Valid motor vehicle operator’s license (not under suspension or revocation).