Proterra Announces Leadership Succession Plan
Among the additions, current President Gareth Joyce will succeed Jack Allen as CEO, who will retire but continue on the company's board, effective Jan. 2022.

Proterra Inc. President Gareth Joyce will succeed Jack Allen as CEO and join the company’s board, effective Jan. 1. Allen will retire as CEO and continue to serve on the company’s board as non-executive chairman at that time.
“Thanks to Jack’s leadership, Proterra has a strong foundation in place,” said Joyce. “As the race toward a zero-emission future continues, I am confident we will continue playing a central role in electrifying the commercial vehicle sector for years to come. As CEO, I will be committed to working with our incredibly talented team to provide customers with best-in-class electric buses and technology, growing our share of the EV market and creating long-term value for shareholders.”
Joyce has been with Proterra since 2020, most recently serving as president of Proterra. Prior to joining the company, he served as chief sustainability officer for Delta Air Lines, overseeing Delta’s $1 billion commitment toward becoming carbon neutral and leading the airline’s Global Sustainability team. Joyce has also held a variety of senior leadership positions with Mercedes-Benz throughout South Africa, Europe, and North America — his last role being CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada. Prior to his time at Mercedes-Benz, Joyce held positions with IQ Business Group, Standard Bank South Africa, Blick PLC, Austen Security, and Deloitte & Touche.
The company also appointed Karina Franco Padilla as its new CFO.
Padilla, who brings more than 25 years of experience overseeing corporate and business unit finances, most recently served as SVP, finance, North America CFO at JELD-WEN. At JELD-WEN, Padilla also served as SVP, finance, corporate planning & analysis, and investor relations. Prior to joining JELD-WEN, Padilla also held leadership positions at Ingersoll Rand, including as interim CFO of the Latin America business unit and VP, finance, corporate planning & analysis.
Additionally, in conjunction with Joyce’s appointment, Proterra announced Ryan Popple will step down as a director on the company’s board. ML Krakauer, a proven technology executive, has been appointed to the board and will join the Compensation Committee.
“With Jack and Gareth on the board, I am confident that Proterra is in good hands, and that now is a good time for me to step away and ensure that our governance aligns with best-in-class practices,” said Popple. “As Proterra continues to grow and capitalize on the opportunities ahead, I look forward to following the company’s success.”
More Management

Turn Transit Data Into Action
Discover how leading agencies are using connected technology to gain real-time visibility across operations, improve service reliability, and reduce disruptions.
Read More →
What Transit-Oriented Development Means for the Future of Public Transportation
Once viewed primarily as transit operators, agencies are now leveraging land, partnerships, and long-term planning to boost ridership, expand housing, and strengthen communities.
Read More →
USDOT Announces $22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates High-Speed Rail Rules
New federal transit funding will support safety, accessibility, and technology projects as updated rail regulations establish new noise standards for high-speed trains.
Read More →
Transportation Construction Coalition Unveils Infrastructure Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline
The coalition noted the next surface transportation bill should provide sustained investment in highways and public transit to strengthen freight movement, improve safety, and support economic growth.
Read More →
People Movement: American Bus Association Extends Ferguson and More
METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.
Read More →
METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
MBTA Rolls Out Pilot Programs to Cut Costs, Simplify Travel
Three new fare pilots — including unlimited two-hour transfers, reduced express bus fares, and free transit for eligible seniors — will launch this fall as Massachusetts extends popular commuter rail discounts through November.
Read More →
FTA Opens $610 Million Funding Opportunity for Bus Infrastructure Projects
The latest Notice of Funding Opportunity provides transit agencies with funding for bus facilities, fleet modernization, and low- and no-emission vehicles, with applications due September 21.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Massachusetts Approves $530M to Strengthen MBTA Operations, Infrastructure
The funding package targets operating stability, capital improvements, and fare affordability, offering a model for agencies navigating long-term funding challenges.
Read More →