Senior Director Data Management (Planning)

The Senior Director, Data Management, will serve as a key analytical leader supporting the MTA's long-range and capital planning efforts. This role oversees resources such as the C&D GIS Portal, dashboards, and the regional ridership forecasting model, ensuring that planning efforts are grounded in accurate, well-interpreted data. The Senior Director leads analyses, including GIS mapping, scenario evaluation, project assessment, and dashboard or model development. The role ensures consistency in data reporting, responds to internal and external data requests, and supports planning studies and investment strategies across the agency. The Senior Director also mentors junior staff and promotes strong, transparent analytical practices. Responsibilities Sets the department's data strategy to support capital and long-range transportation planning, and defines how data will be collected, governed, analyzed, and used for decision-making. Lead MTA's ridership forecasting, long-range planning, and strategic analytics to guide major policy and capital investment decisions. Oversee the development and application of advanced modeling tools, spatial analysis, and scenario planning, and guide the adoption of new technologies. Direct forecasting and data analysis for the Five-Year Capital Program and Twenty-Year Needs Assessment. Shape early project development for capital initiatives and evaluate competing proposals. Manage large datasets, asset inventories, and socio-economic data to support capital planning, and develop and maintain dashboards, including capital planning dashboards and C&D GIS Portal. Advance data architecture, automation, and data pipelines to improve data quality and reduce manual processes. Represent MTA in regional travel demands, forecasting efforts and coordinating with MPOs and government partners. Responsible for supervising analysis and responses to data inquiries and requests from internal and external agencies. Create compelling narratives using data visualization and storytelling, and communicate planning priorities to elected officials, advocacy groups, and the public. Supervise and mentor staff in modeling, data analytics, and planning studies. Ensure compliance with federal and state planning requirements and strengthen decision-making tools for long-range investment strategies.

Do you have experience in Technical project management?, A Bachelor's or Master's degree in urban planning, data science, engineering, public administration, or a related field.

Master's degree preferred.

Must have a minimum of twelve (12) years of relevant experience.

Must have a minimum of eight (8) years in management of large projects, or supervisory role in a large, multi-faceted organization. Competencies:

Strong writing and presentation skills.

Strong supervisory and technical skills, including proficiency in MS Office, data analytics, visualization tools, and spatial analysis using GIS or similar mapping tools.

Knowledge of database management, programming, and other "big data" or data science skills.

Ability to perform in-depth qualitative and quantitative analyses using various tools and datasets.

Strong time and task management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines and maximize the output of a small staff.

Effective communication skills.

Knowledge of the MTA regional network, operating context, and local, state, and federal transportation policies.

The ability to work with both senior-level staff and technical personnel on a diverse array of issues.

The ability to interface with stakeholders, including senior political and business representatives.