Director of Innovation

Metro-North Railroad (MNR) fosters a culture of innovation, empowering employees at all levels to propose and implement new ideas. The organization integrates cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and continuous improvement practices across operations, safety, and training. This forward-thinking approach enables MNR to address current challenges and anticipate future needs. This position is responsible for executing goals set forth by the Innovation pillar of the Metro-North Railroad Strategic Plan and defining an Innovation road map. This role drives the implementation of innovation initiatives across all Metro-North Railroad departments, secures funds for innovative pilots and implementations, and oversees employee submitted ideas from concept through execution. This position also oversees the railroad’s drone program, MNR benchmarking, MTA IT support for MNR, and coordination of Artificial Intelligence programs across MNR., * Manage innovation projects in collaboration with operating departments, including field coordination, budget oversight and reporting on key performance metrics. Lead an internal team of engineers to implement cutting-edge ideas.

• Identify and secure funding for innovation initiatives. Spearhead an innovation roadmap for MNR that guides capital planning investments and advances organization-wide operational efficiency.
• Conduct project prioritization and return-on-investment (ROI) analysis for all MNR innovation initiatives to ensure strategic alignment and value delivery.
• Collaborate with various departments to identify needs and develop and maintain an annual Innovation plan to enhance MNR operations.
• Guide MNR’s drone program used for safety, security, and inspection of railroad assets.
• Manage and coordinate Artificial Intelligence and MTA IT support for MNR and prioritize initiatives to align with business needs.
• Oversee employee submitted ideas by prioritizing and selecting initiatives for advancement, and providing guidance, support and key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure successful implementation.
• Lead cultural transformation across MNR by fostering innovation and implementing effective change management practices at all organizational levels. Manage MNR benchmarking against other railroads.
• Select, develop and motivate personnel and provide career development for team members. Provide effective coaching and counseling. Manage team and individual performance. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables staff to develop and contribute to their full potential.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
• May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
• Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
• Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
• Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
• Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable, * Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
• Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.
• Employees driving company vehicles will be subject to License Monitoring and must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
• To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

Do you have experience in Windows?, * Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.
• Must have focus and ability to deliver results, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.
• Must be a proven leader as a change agent and creative/innovative thinker to align business goals with solutions to drive process improvements.
• Must possess excellent team building, listening, problem-solving, and prioritization skills.
• Proficient computer skills (i.e., Windows environment, Microsoft Office, PeopleSoft, Oracle, etc.) and strong business administrative skills (i.e., presentations, report and letter writing, time management, etc.).
• Demonstrated Project and budget management skills.
• Strong experience in planning, designing and implementing organizational changes including new processes, roles, responsibilities and professional development.

The following is/are preferred:

• Experience writing and submitting grant applications.
• Understanding of the regulations, standards and procedures related to railroad safety, operation and maintenance including CFR (Code of Federal Regulations), FRA (Federal Railroad Administration), and FTA (Federal Transportation Authority) requirements. Familiarity with Metro-North Railroad procedures and policies.
• Familiarity with MTA procurement policies.
• Familiarity with MTA IT policies., * Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in engineering, Architecture, Construction or Project Management, Business Administration, Transportation, or a related field. Demonstrated equivalent education, experience or technical credentials to include four (4) additional years may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Minimum 10 years of related experience in project management to include planning, designing and implementing organizational changes encompassing new processes, roles, responsibilities and professional development.
• Minimum 7 years of experience managing a professional staff or programs/projects.