JOB DESCRIPTION

At TransLink, we're more than just a transportation authority — we're a team of passionate professionals committed to enhancing the livability of our region. As one of BC's Top Employers, we offer a dynamic workplace where your contributions directly impact the communities we serve. If you're ready to lead transformative transit initiatives and make a lasting difference, we invite you to apply for the role of Director, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

Responsibilities

TransLink has embarked on an exciting and ambitious program to plan, design & deliver a network of 9 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors across the region over the coming decade. BRT lines will be high capacity rapid transit with dedicated lanes, frequent and fast service, and high amenity stations similar to rail, and be supported by leading technology and operating practices. The first three BRT corridors to launch in our region will be King George Boulevard, Langley – Haney Place, and Metrotown – North Shore.

To deliver this program, TransLink has initiated a significant BRT cross-enterprise initiative, which encompasses a large number of interrelated capital, technology and operating projects. The successful candidate for this BRT Director role will provide senior leadership, strategic direction, and program management to this major transformation initiative – from planning and design through to implementation. The Director will oversee a team of dedicated BRT Program staff along with staff matrixed from a wide range of departments across the TransLink Enterprise.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Leads the development of Bus Rapid Transit strategy and charts critical paths for projects to consider technical, consultation, political environment, and interdependent initiatives to develop effective timelines and milestones. Provides clear direction from planning and design through to implementation and operation of an integrated, consistent, and comprehensive approach to Bus Rapid Transit.

Provides strategic leadership to the development of the Bus Rapid Transit program and projects. Directs, or provides significant input to, project scoping and business case preparation in collaboration with other enterprise divisions and external road authorities (municipalities and Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure). Oversees the development and implementation of project-related studies, plans, and strategic initiatives, assessing and managing associated risks. Ensures meeting the obligations of project support agreements, develops a robust change management process, to achieve TransLink Enterprise objectives during various project phases.

Ensures appropriate structure, governance, evaluation, analysis, process, policy-making priority, engagement, and decision-making landscape for the projects. Oversees the development and implementation of project-related studies, plans, and strategic initiatives, assessing and managing associated risks.

Provides broad direction and strategy to the projects and ensures compliance within reporting functions. Establishes budgetary, schedule, resourcing, customer impact and risk register targets and measures for all studied areas, directing adjustments as required.

Provides expert advice and recommendations to senior leaders and project stakeholders as related to the projects, including the TransLink Executive, Board, and Mayors' Council through presentations, participation on committees, and ongoing consultation. Contributes as the leader of the project's senior management team, alerts the executive and board to critical project issues and key trade-offs, and advises on critical project risk management strategies. Represents TransLink in deliberations with the Mayors' Council, local government councils, and other interested parties.

Supports the VP, Transportation Planning & Policy, by directing the translation of endorsed key strategies into operational plans and programs across all reporting areas, establishing targets and measures to ensure departmental goals are met. Develops regular reports to keep the VP informed of the status of Bus Rapid Transit planning initiatives, alerting them to achievements as well as to how risks and challenges are being managed. Collaborates with the VP in delivering presentations at the Executive, Board and Mayors' Council level.

Develops and manages critical relationships with key stakeholders, senior industry peers, and government officials, managing expectations and overseeing action taken on the most complex and politically sensitive issues related to the Bus Rapid Transit program and projects. Leads negotiation of key agreements with external partners. Oversees procurement processes for major consultant contracts.

Leads and manages large and complex teams made up of dedicated Bus Rapid Transit program staff, staff matrixed from a wide range of departments across the TransLink Enterprise, consultants, and staff from multiple partner agencies.

Ensures that project deliverables and timelines are adhered to; project budget and resources are up-to-date and adequately.

Directs development of trusted, respectful relationships, and highly responsive interaction with internal and external stakeholders for all reporting areas.

Seeks to understand the lived experience and transportation needs of people and businesses in Metro Vancouver, and especially of disadvantaged and marginalized groups. Applies this understanding to Bus Rapid Transit plans/projects and actively coaches others on how to ensure their planning practice is informed by this understanding.

Provides broad direction for reporting staff, including selection, training, coaching, development, performance management and all other people management practices. Manages and directs day-to-day work of reporting staff, matrixed staff, and consultant and contractor resources.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in engineering, planning, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in transportation or planning, including managing large-scale projects.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Expertise in transportation planning, public policy, and urban development.
• Specialized knowledge of bus service infrastructure and project development is an asset.
• Strong business acumen, with experience in strategy, policy, and change management.
• Advanced project management and reporting skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for engaging with internal and external stakeholders.
• Critical and integrated thinking skills to navigate complex challenges.

Why Join TransLink?

• Impactful Work: Lead a region-wide transformation in public transit that will shape the future of mobility in Metro Vancouver.
• Inclusive Culture: Be part of a workplace that values diversity, equity, and accessibility. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities.
• Competitive Compensation: Salary based on experience and qualifications, plus a comprehensive benefits package including extended health, dental, transit pass, and enrollment in the Public Service Pension Plan.
• Flexible Work Options: Enjoy the benefits of a hybrid work model that supports both on-site collaboration and remote flexibility.

How to Apply

Visit our Career Page to submit your application. Please upload your cover letter and resume as a single PDF document.