APTA kicks off search for new leader

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has begun its search for a new president and chief executive officer.

The association has tapped executive recruiting firm Krauthamer and Associates Inc. to perform the search, according to APTA's Passenger Transport newsletter.

"Over the last eight months, we conducted a deliberate process and resolved outstanding issues to position ourselves so that we can recruit the best person to lead us into the future," said APTA Chair Doran Barnes, who leads the association's CEO search task force, in the newsletter.

During the first phase of the recruitment process, Krauthamer gathered input from APTA members and stakeholders about the desired skills and attributes in the next CEO. Major qualifications include senior and executive experience in the transportation industry, as well as experience working with a board of directors in an executive capacity.

Additionally, APTA expects its new leader to have "extensive government relations and advocacy expertise," association officials said.

Initial interviews will take place in October, with final interviews expected in November.

A candidate will be recommended to the APTA board at its Dec. 1 meeting. The new president and CEO would start the job in early 2018.

In spring 2016, APTA appointed Richard White acting president and CEO after Michael Melaniphy stepped down.