First Student Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

First Student has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and regional management.

Focused on delivering safe and reliable transportation solutions, First Student prioritizes student safety and operational excellence across North America through innovative school district partnerships and a commitment to community-centered service.

Leadership Roles at First Student

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Paul Osland
  • Chief Financial Officer - Joseph Schwaderer
  • Chief Operating Officer - Dean Suhre
  • President - RV.Andrew Muthamia
  • President, Canadian Operations - Francis Lalonde
  • Paul Osland - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Paul Osland, the President & Chief Executive Officer at First Student, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Overseeing the entire North American transportation network, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that school district contracts receive consistent, high-quality service. This leadership role involves managing complex logistics and maintaining safety standards across thousands of routes. By aligning corporate goals with the needs of local districts, Paul Osland drives long-term growth and operational stability. The President & Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the board to refine service models and expand market reach. Through rigorous oversight of fleet management and personnel development, the executive maintains the company's reputation as a leader in student transportation. Ultimately, Osland secures the financial and operational health of the enterprise while fostering a culture of safety and reliability for every student served.
    Paul Osland

    Joseph Schwaderer - Chief Financial Officer

    Joseph Schwaderer, the Chief Financial Officer at First Student, directs the fiscal strategy and capital allocation for the organization. Overseeing the financial planning and analysis departments, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the company maintains a robust balance sheet while investing in fleet modernization. This leadership role involves managing complex contract pricing models and evaluating the profitability of regional service agreements. By monitoring economic trends across North America, Joseph Schwaderer mitigates financial risks and supports sustainable growth initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to allocate resources effectively, ensuring that operational needs receive adequate funding. Through rigorous auditing and financial reporting, the executive maintains transparency and accountability to stakeholders. Ultimately, Schwaderer secures the long-term financial viability of the company, enabling the organization to continue providing essential transportation services to school districts while maintaining a competitive market position.

    Dean Suhre - Chief Operating Officer

    Dean Suhre, the Chief Operating Officer at First Student, manages the daily execution of transportation services across the continent. Overseeing the maintenance of the massive vehicle fleet, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every bus meets strict safety and performance benchmarks. This leadership role involves optimizing route efficiency and managing the workforce responsible for daily student transit. By implementing advanced logistics software, Dean Suhre improves service reliability for school districts throughout North America. The Chief Operating Officer coordinates with regional managers to address operational challenges and streamline maintenance protocols. Through constant monitoring of performance metrics, the executive identifies opportunities for cost reduction and service enhancement. Ultimately, Suhre maintains the operational integrity of the company, ensuring that every student arrives at school on time and in a safe environment, while simultaneously driving efficiency across all regional hubs.
    Dean Suhre

    RV.Andrew Muthamia - President

    RV.Andrew Muthamia, the President at First Student, leads specific business units focused on expanding service offerings and strengthening district relationships. Overseeing the development of new transportation solutions, the President ensures that the company adapts to the evolving needs of school districts across North America. This leadership role involves identifying growth opportunities and fostering partnerships that enhance service delivery. By driving innovation in student transit, RV.Andrew Muthamia improves the overall experience for students and school administrators alike. The President coordinates with cross-functional teams to implement new service models and improve customer satisfaction. Through strategic planning and market analysis, the executive identifies key areas for expansion and service improvement. Ultimately, Muthamia strengthens the company's market presence by delivering tailored transportation solutions that address the unique requirements of diverse school districts, ensuring that the organization remains a trusted partner in the education sector.

    Francis Lalonde - President, Canadian Operations

    Francis Lalonde, the President, Canadian Operations at First Student, directs all transportation activities within the Canadian market. Overseeing the regional fleet and local management teams, the President, Canadian Operations ensures that service delivery aligns with national safety standards and provincial requirements. This leadership role involves managing relationships with Canadian school boards and optimizing route networks across diverse geographic regions. By implementing localized operational strategies, Francis Lalonde drives efficiency and service quality throughout the country. The President, Canadian Operations collaborates with the broader executive team to integrate Canadian initiatives into the overall North American strategy. Through proactive engagement with local stakeholders, the executive addresses regional challenges and promotes the company's commitment to student safety. Ultimately, Lalonde secures the company's position as a premier transportation provider in Canada, ensuring that every student receives reliable and safe transit services tailored to the specific needs of the Canadian landscape.
    Francis Lalonde

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding First Student Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads First Student?
    First Student is led by Paul Osland (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joseph Schwaderer (Chief Financial Officer) and Dean Suhre (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of First Student’s executive team?
    The executive team of First Student includes leaders such as Paul Osland (President & Chief Executive Officer), Joseph Schwaderer (Chief Financial Officer), Dean Suhre (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does First Student have?
    First Student has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in First Student’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of First Student includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, President, Canadian Operations.