Since joining the North County Transit District in Oceanside, California, in November 2010, Bridget Hennessey has guided staff through periods of both transition and crisis. In her dual role as chief of staff and intergovernmental affairs officer, she is charged with implementing special projects on behalf of the agency’s executive director; managing the strategic direction and daily activities of the intergovernmental affairs and communications division and its three departments and 15 employees; working with the local congressional delegation to secure discretionary funding for capital projects; and communicating the district’s position on issues to federal, state and local agencies, associations and advocacy groups.
When the Sprinter light rail train was suspended from service in March 2013 on the eve of its fifth anniversary celebration, Hennessey mobilized her communications team and quickly assembled outside resources to effectively communicate the service interruption impacts to passengers, the general public and stakeholders. During a highly stressful event, Hennessey provided the thoughtful, calm, upbeat leadership which successfully guided her team and her agency to a flawless response to the crisis.
Hennessey joined NCTD as the agency was shifting its business model and in turn transforming the organizational structure. As chief of staff, Hennessey has addressed the challenges of this organizational transformation head on. The operational model change has also brought intense media scrutiny. Using her experience, Hennessey has set the strategy for responding to the scrutiny helping the agency maintain its stature in both local and industry communities.
Prior to joining NCTD, Hennessey worked for nearly a decade as a transit advocate. In that capacity she worked with national organizations, including the Center for Transportation Excellence, Smart Growth America and the American Planning Association to advocate for increased investment in transportation and progressive transit and community development policies.
Hennessey continues to demonstrate her dedication to the industry through her innovation and leadership at North County Transit District.
“I really enjoying working in an industry that truly makes an impact in the communities we live and work in. I would like to see national transportation policy that fosters a culture of innovation.”
