Central Ohio Transit Authority Executive and Leadership Team

May, 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 for 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 - Ronald Barnes
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Monica Tellez-Fowler
  • 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
  • Ronald Barnes - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ronald Barnes, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the public transit provider. Barnes guides the organization's mission to serve Greater Columbus and central Ohio, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision, fostering key stakeholder relationships, and driving initiatives that enhance the rider experience and expand service reach. By focusing on sustainable growth and operational excellence, Barnes ensures the Central Ohio Transit Authority meets the evolving transportation needs of the region. The executive's focus remains on optimizing resource allocation and advancing the authority's long-term objectives. Ronald Barnes champions innovation in public transit solutions.

    Monica Tellez-Fowler - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Monica Tellez-Fowler, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, spearheads the strategic direction and executive leadership for the transit authority. Tellez-Fowler is responsible for defining the organization's vision and ensuring its alignment with the needs of Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This executive role encompasses driving operational improvements, cultivating partnerships, and championing initiatives that advance the authority's public service mandate. By focusing on service excellence and community engagement, Monica Tellez-Fowler ensures the Central Ohio Transit Authority remains a vital resource for regional mobility. The executive's leadership supports the expansion of transit services and the enhancement of the rider experience. Monica Tellez-Fowler drives the organization's commitment to accessible and reliable transportation.
    Monica Tellez-Fowler

    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 organization's strategic objectives and operational management. Weithman oversees critical functions that ensure the efficient delivery of public transit services across Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This leadership position involves collaborating with various departments to optimize service routes, manage infrastructure projects, and enhance operational efficiency. By focusing on strategic implementation and cross-departmental coordination, Garth Weithman contributes significantly to the authority's mission of providing reliable transportation. The executive's efforts are directed towards improving service quality and expanding the transit network. Garth Weithman plays a key role in advancing the Central Ohio Transit Authority's operational capabilities.

    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 organization. White manages budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and reporting to ensure the fiscal health and sustainability of the transit authority serving Greater Columbus and central Ohio. This critical executive role involves securing funding, managing investments, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. By maintaining rigorous financial oversight, Marion White supports the authority's ability to deliver essential public transit services effectively. The executive's focus is on optimizing financial performance and resource allocation to meet strategic goals. Marion White drives financial integrity and accountability across the organization.

    Alicia Walker - Chief Operating Officer

    Alicia Walker, the Chief Operating Officer at Central Ohio Transit Authority, directs the day-to-day operational activities essential for providing public transit services throughout Greater Columbus and central Ohio. Walker is responsible for managing fleet operations, service scheduling, and ensuring the safety and reliability of all transit services. This executive role involves optimizing operational workflows, implementing efficiency improvements, and overseeing the maintenance of transit infrastructure. By focusing on operational excellence and service delivery, Alicia Walker ensures the Central Ohio Transit Authority meets the mobility needs of the community. The executive's leadership drives the effective deployment of resources and the continuous enhancement of service quality. Alicia Walker is instrumental in maintaining the seamless functioning of the transit system.
    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, supporting the workforce that delivers transit services across Greater Columbus and central Ohio. Brandon is responsible for talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive organizational culture. This executive position involves developing and implementing HR strategies that align with the authority's operational and strategic objectives. By focusing on employee development and engagement, Nikki Brandon ensures the Central Ohio Transit Authority attracts and retains skilled personnel. The executive's efforts are directed towards building a robust and motivated workforce. Nikki Brandon champions the development of human resources to support the transit authority's mission.

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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 Ronald Barnes (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Monica Tellez-Fowler (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 Ronald Barnes (President & Chief Executive Officer), Monica Tellez-Fowler (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.