Metra names Milano deputy exec director

John Milano has been named deputy executive director for administration at Metra, the Chicago commuter-rail agency announced late last week.

Formerly Metra's deputy general counsel, Milano now serves as the top administrative officer under Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer Don Orseno.

In his new role, Milano will be responsible for planning, developing, organizing and directing  administrative activities. Selected from a field of 10 candidates in a nationwide search, he began serving in the new post on Feb. 1.

"John brings the perfect combination of extensive experience and solid expertise to this role," Orseno said in a press release. "I am confident that he can help make Metra's administration work better for its customers, employees and vendors. In addition, at a time when Metra faces a tidal wave of retirements, he represents the next generation of transportation leaders."

Milano joined Metra in 1998 and since has served in various capacities under different administrations, including stints as deputy general counsel and senior corporate director overseeing Metra's real estate, marketing and revenue development. He has worked with all administrative departments and is currently overseeing the internal audit department function.

Prior to working for Metra, Milano served the Illinois Department of Transportation as an assistant chief counsel from 1989 to 1998, where he handled a variety of assignments involving public transportation, rail and highways.