Van Wagenen to Lead National Express Transit, Shuttle Divisions
The new structure supports the company’s strategy to deliver transportation solutions for connected communities, campuses, and workplaces as part of National Express Group.

Erick Van Wagenen is president and CEO of National Express North America Shuttle and Transit.
National Express
National Express LLC announced several key executive appointments to lead the growth of its newly combined North American Shuttle and Transit business. The new structure supports the company’s strategy to deliver transportation solutions for connected communities, campuses, and workplaces as part of National Express Group.
The announcement completes the planned integration of its Shuttle division (operated by WeDriveU) and Transit division (operating as National Express Transit), extending the momentum of an organization with more than 4,000 employees across 37 regional customer service centers operating a fleet of 2,600 vehicles, including alternative fuel and zero emission. This uniquely positions the combined Shuttle and Transit divisions with unparalleled expertise, scalability, and global best practices to address strong demand from public and private sector customers and evolve their mobility programs into the future.
Leadership Overseeing the New Division:
Erick Van Wagenen is president and CEO of National Express North America Shuttle and Transit. Previously, as president and CEO of the Shuttle division, Van Wagenen built a 15-year track record expanding the Shuttle business, developing high-performing teams and delivering value to customers, including some of the world’s largest workplace and campus transportation systems.
Bob Kenna is promoted to COO with a focus on driving operational excellence. With 27 years of experience in transportation and logistics including seven years implementing the company’s largest bus operations. Bob oversees the Operations and Safety teams led by Stephanie Maher, Eddie Cranford, Alex Heliotis, and Amy Paolercio, and Business Planning and Development, led by Stan Kluska.
John King, Sr. VP, Business Development, for Transit, will continue in his role, reporting to Van Wagenen.
Tim Wayland, CCO for Shuttle, will assume leadership of the full customer lifecycle by integrating the existing Customer Success and Business Development teams.
“Customers look to National Express Shuttle and Transit as their strategic partner with the passion and expertise to evolve their transportation systems and transform their passenger experience,” said Van Wagenen. “I’m excited to lead our exceptional team in delivering the next generation of mobility for a more sustainable and connected future.”
National Express Shuttle and Transit helps public transit authorities and municipalities expand mobility services for their communities while extending their reach with services for universities, employers, and properties driving prosperity and growth.
“North America represents a tremendous growth opportunity as a center for innovation and investment within National Express Group,” said Ignacio Garat, CEO, National Express Group. “This outstanding leadership team and customer-centric approach positions National Express Shuttle and Transit to lead the future of mobility and realize our vision for driving the modal shift from single occupancy cars to shared, sustainable solutions.”
The new structure fosters agility and innovation, creating a customer-focused organization capable of scaling to meet customers’ evolving needs for fixed route bus services, paratransit services, and demand-responsive programs. Experienced local operations teams and dedicated customer success managers bring fresh thinking, proactive ideas, and curiosity about what’s possible, using cutting-edge technologies and metrics to reimagine the passenger experience.
More New Mobility

Biz Briefs: Montréal Debuts Nova Electric Buses and More
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we spotlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility.
Read More →
6 Transit Management Lessons for Colleges and Universities Facing Seasonal Demand Swings
College transportation demand swings wildly throughout the year. Fleet strategies are starting to catch up.
Read More →METROspectives: CharterUP CEO Armir Harris on Modernizing Mobility
From digital transformation to evolving customer demands, CharterUP's CEO Armir Harris offers his perspective on the transportation industry's next chapter.
Read More →
Joshua Schank on Transportation Innovation, Risk, and the Future of Mobility
In this edition of METROspectives, Joshua Schank discusses lessons from launching LA Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation, the challenges of advancing new mobility technologies, and much more.
Read More →Low-Floor vs. High-Floor Cutaway vs. Modified Van: How 3 Accessible Minibus Designs Compare
As transit demands evolve, so should your fleet. Download the whitepaper to see how the Low-Floor Frontrunner Minibus compares to traditional options.
Read More →Joshua Schank on Transportation Innovation, Risk, and the Future of Mobility
In this edition of METROspectives, the co-author of New Tricks for Old Bureaucracies, discusses lessons from launching LA Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation, the challenges of advancing new mobility technologies, and much more.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: Foothill Gold Line Award, Matawan Contract, and More
From strategic partnerships to acquisitions and service expansions, the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Find out all the latest here.
Read More →
Inside Look: EMBARK Expands Fare-Free Transit Program Through New Public-Private Partnership
The OKC transit agency says sponsorship helps subsidize the Third Friday Free initiative while reducing barriers for first-time riders and boosting ridership across buses, streetcars, and river cruises.
Read More →2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory
Searching for the right vehicles, technology, equipment, or services for your public transit or motorcoach operation? This industry guide brings together manufacturers and suppliers from across the transportation market — all in one place. Download it to connect with the companies that help agencies and operators improve mobility, enhance operations, and move their organizations forward.
Read More →
King County Test Heliox Chargers, Keolis Lands California Contract Top Biz Briefs
Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.
Read More →