Chicago Transit Authority Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Chicago Transit Authority has 5 executives leading key functions including revenue generation, operations, strategic alignment, and executive leadership.

Driven by a commitment to efficient public transit, Chicago Transit Authority provides essential passenger bus and rail transportation services across Chicago, Illinois, impacting daily commutes and regional connectivity.

Leadership Roles at Chicago Transit Authority

  • Chief Operating Officer - Cara Bader
  • Acting President - Nora Leerhsen
  • Chief Revenue Officer - Joni Johnson
  • Chief of Staff - Stephen Mayberry
  • Chief Revenue Officer, ( Combined Rail & Operator - Xavier Epps
  • Cara Bader - Chief Operating Officer

    Cara Bader, the Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Transit Authority, executes the daily operational strategies for all transit services. Overseeing the vast network of bus and rail lines, Cara Bader ensures the efficient and reliable delivery of transportation to the public. This critical role involves managing fleet maintenance, service scheduling, and emergency response protocols. By optimizing route efficiency and resource allocation, Cara Bader directly enhances passenger experience and operational uptime. Bader's leadership drives continuous improvement in service delivery, ensuring Chicago Transit Authority meets the mobility needs of the region. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on seamless execution and service excellence across all transit modes.

    Nora Leerhsen - Acting President

    Nora Leerhsen, the Acting President at Chicago Transit Authority, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire organization. Overseeing all aspects of the agency's operations, policy development, and public engagement, Nora Leerhsen ensures the fulfillment of the transit mission. This pivotal role involves guiding executive teams, fostering intergovernmental relations, and representing the agency to stakeholders. By championing initiatives that enhance service quality and accessibility, Nora Leerhsen directly impacts the community. Leerhsen's leadership drives the strategic vision for Chicago Transit Authority, focusing on innovation and sustainable growth. The Acting President's ultimate responsibility is the overall success and public trust of the transit system.

    Joni Johnson - Chief Revenue Officer

    Joni Johnson, the Chief Revenue Officer at Chicago Transit Authority, directs all revenue-generating activities and financial strategies. Overseeing fare collection systems and advertising partnerships, Joni Johnson ensures maximum income streams to support operational needs. This leadership position involves analyzing market trends to identify new revenue opportunities and optimize existing ones. By developing innovative pricing models and promotional campaigns, Joni Johnson directly contributes to the agency's financial sustainability. Ultimately, Johnson secures robust financial health through strategic revenue management, aligning fiscal goals with the mission of providing accessible transportation.

    Stephen Mayberry - Chief of Staff

    Stephen Mayberry, the Chief of Staff at Chicago Transit Authority, provides strategic support and operational coordination across executive functions. Managing key initiatives and ensuring alignment between departments, Stephen Mayberry facilitates the smooth execution of the agency's strategic objectives. This role involves overseeing special projects, managing interdepartmental communications, and advising executive leadership on critical matters. By streamlining workflows and enhancing organizational efficiency, Stephen Mayberry directly supports the agency's mission. Mayberry's influence extends to policy implementation and ensuring executive decisions translate into tangible operational outcomes. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point for strategic execution and organizational effectiveness.

    Xavier Epps - Chief Revenue Officer, ( Combined Rail & Operator

    Xavier Epps, the Chief Revenue Officer, ( Combined Rail & Operator at Chicago Transit Authority, spearheads revenue generation specifically for rail and operator services. Overseeing fare structures, ridership analytics, and service expansion revenue, Xavier Epps identifies and capitalizes on opportunities within these core transit segments. This specialized role involves developing financial models for new rail lines and operator contracts, ensuring profitability and service growth. By optimizing revenue streams from these critical areas, Xavier Epps directly enhances the agency's financial capacity. Epps's strategic focus drives increased income from both passenger rail operations and operator agreements, contributing significantly to Chicago Transit Authority's fiscal health. The Chief Revenue Officer, ( Combined Rail & Operator ensures robust financial performance in key service sectors.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Chicago Transit Authority Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Chicago Transit Authority?
    Chicago Transit Authority is led by Cara Bader (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Nora Leerhsen (Acting President) and Joni Johnson (Chief Revenue Officer).
    Who is part of Chicago Transit Authority’s executive team?
    The executive team of Chicago Transit Authority includes leaders such as Cara Bader (Chief Operating Officer), Nora Leerhsen (Acting President), Joni Johnson (Chief Revenue Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Chicago Transit Authority have?
    Chicago Transit Authority has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Chicago Transit Authority’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Chicago Transit Authority includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Acting President, Chief Revenue Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Revenue Officer, ( Combined Rail & Operator.