Phoenix Metro hires new CEO
Steve Banta, who has more than 23 years in the transit industry, has worked in progressively important management roles for several public transit agencies including in his current role as Portland, Ore. TriMet's executive director of operations.
An employment contract has been finalized between Phoenix Metro light rail and its new CEO Steve Banta. Banta is expected to start work on Jan. 20, 2010.
"We are extremely pleased to move forward with Mr. Banta," said Metro Board Chairman and Phoenix Vice Mayor Tom Simplot. "The Metro light rail organization will benefit from his years of experience managing an operation that is a model in the transit industry."
Banta, who has more than 23 years in the transit industry, has worked in progressively important management roles for several public transit agencies including in his current role as Portland, Ore. TriMet's executive director of operations.
"I appreciate the board's confidence in me," said Banta. "I look forward to building a similar level of trust with the metro Phoenix community and add to the excellent work already accomplished."
Current CEO Rick Simonetta has served as Metro's first CEO over the last six years; his term ends Dec. 31, 2009. Metro General Counsel Mike Ladino will serve as acting CEO until Banta's arrival.
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