Central Ohio Transit Authority Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Central Ohio Transit Authority has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Central Ohio Transit Authority provides essential transit solutions across Greater Columbus and central Ohio, fostering community connectivity and economic vitality through reliable transportation.

Leadership Roles at Central Ohio Transit Authority

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Monica Tellez-Fowler
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Ronald Barnes
  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Garth Weithman
  • Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President - Marion White
  • Chief Operating Officer - Alicia Walker
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Nikki Brandon
  • Monica Tellez-Fowler - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Monica Tellez-Fowler, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the public transit provider serving Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This leadership position involves setting the vision for service expansion and ensuring the organization effectively meets the evolving mobility needs of the region. Tellez-Fowler oversees all departmental functions, driving initiatives that enhance service reliability and customer experience across the transit network. By aligning operational goals with the company's mission, Monica Tellez-Fowler ensures the Central Ohio Transit Authority remains a vital component of the community's infrastructure, supporting economic development and accessibility throughout its service area. The President & Chief Executive Officer's role is critical in navigating regulatory landscapes and fostering key stakeholder relationships to secure the long-term sustainability and growth of public transit services.
    Monica Tellez-Fowler

    Ronald Barnes - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ronald Barnes, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, spearheads the strategic direction and comprehensive management of the public transit system for Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This executive function encompasses defining long-term objectives and ensuring the efficient delivery of transportation services to a broad user base. Barnes is responsible for the overall performance of the organization, guiding its operations to meet community demands and foster regional connectivity. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, Ronald Barnes drives initiatives aimed at improving service quality and expanding reach. The President & Chief Executive Officer's leadership is pivotal in maintaining the Central Ohio Transit Authority's role as a cornerstone of regional mobility, supporting economic activity and enhancing quality of life for residents. This role demands a keen focus on operational excellence and stakeholder engagement to advance the transit authority's mission.

    Garth Weithman - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Garth Weithman, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, supports the President & Chief Executive Officer in executing the strategic vision and operational oversight for the transit provider in Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This position involves managing key initiatives and ensuring the seamless integration of various departmental functions to achieve organizational goals. Weithman focuses on enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency across the transit network, contributing to the reliable transportation of passengers. By collaborating with executive leadership, Garth Weithman plays a crucial part in driving innovation and service improvements that benefit the community. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include overseeing critical projects and ensuring alignment with the Central Ohio Transit Authority's mission to provide accessible and dependable public transit. This leadership role is essential for maintaining operational momentum and advancing the organization's strategic priorities.

    Marion White - Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President

    Marion White, the Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President at Central Ohio Transit Authority, oversees all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the public transit provider in Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This critical role involves managing budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and reporting to ensure the organization's financial health and sustainability. White is responsible for safeguarding the transit authority's assets and optimizing financial performance through sound fiscal management. By developing and implementing financial policies, Marion White ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and supports strategic decision-making across all departments. The Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President's expertise is essential for securing funding, managing expenditures, and driving financial efficiency. This leadership position is instrumental in maintaining the Central Ohio Transit Authority's capacity to deliver vital transportation services and pursue future growth initiatives.

    Alicia Walker - Chief Operating Officer

    Alicia Walker, the Chief Operating Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, directs the day-to-day operational activities and service delivery for the public transit system across Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This executive role encompasses the management of all operational departments, including service planning, fleet management, and customer support, ensuring the reliable and efficient movement of passengers. Walker is responsible for implementing operational strategies that enhance service quality, punctuality, and passenger safety throughout the transit network. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining processes, Alicia Walker drives improvements in operational performance and customer satisfaction. The Chief Operating Officer's leadership is vital in maintaining the integrity of transit services and responding effectively to service demands. This position ensures the Central Ohio Transit Authority consistently delivers on its commitment to providing essential transportation solutions to the region.
    Alicia Walker

    Nikki Brandon - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Nikki Brandon, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, leads all human capital management initiatives for the public transit organization serving Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This executive function encompasses talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, and fostering a positive organizational culture. Brandon is responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies that align with the Central Ohio Transit Authority's mission and operational needs, ensuring a skilled and engaged workforce. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Nikki Brandon contributes to operational effectiveness and service excellence. The Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership is vital in attracting and retaining top talent, managing workforce dynamics, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. This role is fundamental to supporting the transit authority's strategic objectives and its commitment to its employees and the community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Central Ohio Transit Authority Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Central Ohio Transit Authority?
    Central Ohio Transit Authority is led by Monica Tellez-Fowler (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ronald Barnes (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Garth Weithman (Deputy Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Central Ohio Transit Authority’s executive team?
    The executive team of Central Ohio Transit Authority includes leaders such as Monica Tellez-Fowler (President & Chief Executive Officer), Ronald Barnes (President & Chief Executive Officer), Garth Weithman (Deputy Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Central Ohio Transit Authority have?
    Central Ohio Transit Authority has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Central Ohio Transit Authority’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Central Ohio Transit Authority includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Chief Operating Officer.