Metra on Sept. 22, announced the hiring of Michael D. Jones, a seasoned veteran with demonstrated leadership in public transportation, as its new chief human resources officer.
Most recently he served as chief administrative officer for Systra Consulting Inc. in Philadelphia, where he was responsible for the company’s U.S.-based human resources program, including policies and programs covering recruitment and retention, organization and succession planning, employment, compensation, benefits, performance management, employee relations and training and development. In addition, he ensured the firm was compliant with all applicable federal, state and local laws, including federal contracting requirements. He also oversaw all administrative departments including finance, information technology and legal.
Prior to joining Systra in 2013, Jones served as senior manager, human resources operations/labor relations officer for Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). He oversaw DART’s employee and labor relations functions, set and implemented labor strategy and served as chief spokesman during labor and management negotiations. He had risen through the ranks at DART after starting there in 2000.
“We are pleased to welcome Mr. Jones to Metra and Chicago. He 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/CEO Don Orseno.
Jones is a member of the APTA Board of Directors and is secretary of the APTA Human Resources Committee. He also is a graduate of Leadership APTA, the transit industry's highly respected leadership program, and was acknowledged by Mass Transit Magazine as a “Top 40 Under 40” in 2012. He earned a master’s degree in business administration from Texas A&M University in 2005 and a bachelor’s degree in management from Grambling State University in 2000.
