MBTA names Ramirez general manager, CEO

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has appointed Luis Manuel Ramirez general manager and chief executive officer, Massachusetts Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack announced yesterday.

Ramirez will succeed interim General Manager Steve Poftak on Sept. 12. Ramirez most recently ran his own strategic and turnaround business consulting firm, Massachusetts Department of Transportation officials said in a press release.

Ramirez also served as vice president and corporate officer at General Electric, as well as president and CEO of GE's Energy Industrial Solutions business. In addition, he held a number of positions at Siemens for 11 years.

"We were looking for a candidate with a solid track record of leading large and complex organizations through transformation and change," Pollack said. "His unique personal background, deep exposure to a range of challenges and constituencies, and proven leadership skills make Luis the right person to lead the MBTA as it continues to become the world-class transit agency our riders expect and deserve."

Ramirez's contract with the MBTA is for three years, with two one-year mutual options to extend.

The MBTA has gone through six permanent or acting general managers since 2011. Poftak was named interim GM in July 1 after Brian Shortsleeve stepped down as acting GM and chief administrator. Shortsleeve became acting general manager in July 2016 following Frank DePaola's retirement from the post.