Director, Specialist Projects

MTM•Saint Louis, MO

About The Position

The Director, Specialist Projects serves as an operational leader responsible for delivering high-quality, cost-effective transportation services across multiple locations through close collaboration with operations teams, corporate support functions, and transportation providers. This role acts as the primary internal liaison between departments and clients, ensuring full contractual compliance, strong partnerships, and consistent service excellence at each assigned location. This role requires 70% + travel.

Requirements

High School Diploma or G.E.D
Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience) in a related field
6+ years of experience in transit management with expertise in Fixed Route from larger systems
3+ years’ experience in Mobility Management, preferably managing a larger location, or 4+ years’ experience in a Business Development role within the Paratransit or livery industries
Previous management experience in the Paratransit or livery industries
Prior contract and/or project management experience
Must possess a valid current driver’s license
Must possess excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with a variety of people and job positions
Required to have capabilities as it relates to data analytics
Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines
Extensive knowledge of Trapeze transit routing system
Extensive analytical and proven data collection methods
Exceptional interpretation and problem-solving skills
Ability to schedule, organize and prioritize multiple tasks
Extensive knowledge of budget and cost analysis
Ability to evaluate and resolve problems and issues in a constructive manner
Moderate to advanced computer skills
Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality
Monitor performance of direct reports and provide coaching and guidance
Regular attendance is required
Ability to establish key processes and procedures
Thorough knowledge of ADA, DOT, FTA regulations
Proven experience in operations and management of staff
Proven experience supervising and monitoring the delivery of contractual services

Responsibilities

Division Implementation Lead and coordinate all activities required for successful division start-up, including staffing, administration, safety, maintenance, and training
Serve as a primary point of contact with clients, local leadership, and internal support teams to ensure alignment and readiness
Ensure divisions are appropriately staffed, fully trained, and operationally prepared prior to go-live
Maintain contractual and regulatory compliance throughout the implementation process
Deliver a high-quality, service‐first operational launch, ensuring excellence from day one
Provide interim General Manager leadership at assigned divisions, assuming full accountability for operational performance until a permanent leader is in place
Visit divisions requiring additional support to assess needs, provide hands-on guidance, and implement best practices
Support assigned locations in improving service delivery, client satisfaction, and financial results through targeted operational interventions
Partner with the COO on process improvement initiatives and enterprise-wide rollouts of new programs and operational enhancements
Maintain visibility into planned and active projects, proactively communicating impacts, risks, and progress to key business stakeholders
Support change management efforts to ensure initiatives are effectively adopted across divisions
Maintain deep working knowledge of MTM Transit departments, policies, and compliance programs
Serve as an operational subject matter expert for Trapeze, Reveal, Eco Lane, and other routing, scheduling, dispatching, and reporting systems
Provide timely, solutions-oriented support for operational questions and escalations related to MTM Transit
Develop and maintain a strong understanding of ridership and service policies to support smooth, reliable transportation services
Promote and model a strong “Safety First” culture with clients, leaders, and frontline staff
Act as a trusted liaison between MTM Transit and clients, addressing concerns proactively and resolving issues efficiently to maintain strong partnerships
Ensure consistent, transparent communication with clients and internal stakeholders to support long-term operational success