Help shape the future of transportation in Northern Michigan.
The Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) provides more than 500,000 rides annually, connecting residents and visitors across Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties to work, school, healthcare, recreation, and to each other.
The organization is poised for its next phase of leadership and impact with a strong internal team, a state-of-the-art facility, a forward-looking board, and new regional opportunities through the MPO designation. This is not a role defined by quick wins. The foundation is in place. The next phase requires thoughtful, innovative leadership to expand impact, strengthen partnerships, and guide long-term strategy.
We are looking for a leader who thrives in that space, someone who can create a vision, navigate complexity, build alignment, and help define what transportation looks like for this region in the years ahead.
With strong infrastructure, a committed team, and growing regional relevance, BATA is well-positioned for what comes next.
If this speaks to your talents and personal interests, we would love to hear from you. Please include why you are interested in your cover letter along with your resume. Candidates desiring confidentiality as allowed under Michigan law should make this request in the cover letter.
We are accepting applications through Wednesday, April 22, 2026. We will begin contacting candidates by May 5, 2026.
What You’ll Do
Lead the Vision
- Set and execute a forward-looking strategy aligned with community and regional priorities
- Position BATA as a key mobility partner across the region
Build & Lead a Strong Organization
- Develop and support a high-performing team
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Drive Performance
- Ensure safe, reliable, and efficient service delivery
- Use data and metrics to guide decisions and improve outcomes
Partner with the Board
- Serve as a trusted advisor
- Provide clear, timely communication
- Support strong governance and alignment
Engage Regionally
- Build relationships with local, state, and federal partners
- Navigate a complex, multi-jurisdictional environment
Strengthen Financial Sustainability
- Lead funding strategy across local, state, and federal sources
- Engage in MPO/TIP processes and identify new funding opportunities
Why This Role
- Lead a respected, community-centered organization
- Help shape how a growing region connects and moves
- Work with a committed board and strong internal team
- Step into a modern, purpose-built facility designed for the future
- Influence long-term regional outcomes, not just day-to-day operations
- Live in Northern Michigan -an exceptional quality of life, with four seasons, abundant outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community
What We Offer
The hiring salary range for the position is $155,900 to $200,000 per year.
Please see our website for more information on our benefits. Key benefits include:
- Health Insurance – includes medical, dental, vision and prescriptions
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Pension plan through MERS (defined benefit retirement plan)
- Pre-tax retirement savings plan (457)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- A positive, team-oriented work culture
- Childcare cost-sharing (we participate in Tri-Share)
- Short- and Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Paid Holidays
- Automobile and cell phone stipends
