The METRO Board of Directors announced the hiring of Justin Avery, current Rock Region METRO CFO, as the new METRO CEO.

“After a nationwide search, we were delighted that Justin Avery has the innovation, leadership, transit knowledge and financial acumen needed to continue Rock Region METRO’s current trajectory," said Erin Parker, METRO board director."

Avery has 10 years of experience at METRO, most recently serving as interim CEO and CFO. Prior to joining the METRO team, Avery served two years as a staff auditor at Craft, Veach & Company. A graduate of Hendrix College with a master’s degree in accounting, Avery is a certified public accountant. He is a graduate of the Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XXXIII and a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Government Finance Officers Association, Arkansas Government Finance Officers Association, and Arkansas Society of Certified Public Accountants.

“Justin is a proven leader who shares Rock Region METRO’s commitment to excellence for all passengers," said Nicole Hart, METRO Board of Director chairwoman. "The Board is confident Justin will realize the full potential of an equitable, reliable and cost-efficient transit system for all communities in Central Arkansas that depend on METRO.”

Avery was one of three finalist candidates who completed a vetting process managed by consulting firm Baker Tilly U.S., LLP and the METRO Board of Directors personnel committee. Finalists were selected among seven semifinalists by the personnel committee last month and then interviewed in person May 19.