Metra names Jones to oversee HR

Metra has hired Michael Jones to serve as the Chicago commuter-rail agency's new chief human resources officer.

Jones has more than 15 years of experience in multiple areas of administration, including human resources, strategic planning, change management and organizational effectiveness.

Jones "brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will enable our agency to continue to grow and expand as we look to enhance our talent acquisition strategy and other resources," said Metra Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Don Orseno in a press release.

Most recently, Jones served as chief administrative officer for SYSTRA Consulting Inc. in Philadelphia, where he was responsible for human resources, including recruitment and retention, organization and succession planning, employment, compensation, benefits, performance management, employee relations and training and development. Jones also oversaw the firm's compliance with federal, state and local laws.

Prior to joining SYSTRA, Jones was senior manager, HR operations/labor relations officer for Dallas Area Rapid Transit. While there, he oversaw the agency's employee and labor relations functions. He had risen through the ranks at DART, where he started in 2000.