Metra Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Metra has 7 executives leading key functions including strategic oversight, operational management, information technology, and human resources.

Committed to reliable regional transit, Metra delivers essential commuter rail services across northeastern Illinois. This organization prioritizes safe, efficient transportation solutions to connect diverse communities throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.

Leadership Roles at Metra

  • Chief Executive Officer - Yotam Keduri
  • Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer - James Derwinski
  • Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer - Donald Orseno
  • Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer - Kevin McCann
  • Chief Information Officer - Steven Radecki
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Brenda Smith
  • Chief Operations Officer - Peter Zwolfer
  • Yotam Keduri - Chief Executive Officer

    Yotam Keduri, the Chief Executive Officer at Metra, directs the overarching strategic vision for the commuter rail network. Keduri manages high-level corporate governance while ensuring alignment with regional transportation mandates across northeastern Illinois. By fostering partnerships with local government agencies, the Chief Executive Officer secures necessary funding for infrastructure maintenance and fleet modernization. This leadership role involves balancing fiscal responsibility with the demand for reliable public transit services. Yotam Keduri drives initiatives to enhance passenger safety and operational efficiency throughout the system. Through rigorous oversight of long-term capital projects, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of the rail network. Ultimately, Keduri optimizes organizational performance to support the daily mobility needs of thousands of commuters, ensuring the system remains a cornerstone of regional connectivity and economic vitality.

    James Derwinski - Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer

    James Derwinski, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at Metra, architects the comprehensive operational framework for the commuter rail system. Derwinski oversees the execution of complex transit policies that govern daily service delivery across multiple Illinois counties. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer establishes performance benchmarks for system-wide reliability and safety. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of service schedules and equipment maintenance protocols to meet evolving passenger demands. James Derwinski drives the implementation of innovative technology to streamline rail operations and improve the overall commuter experience. Through strategic resource allocation, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer ensures the sustainability of the transit infrastructure. Ultimately, Derwinski maintains the operational excellence required to support the extensive rail network serving the Chicago region.
    James Derwinski

    Donald Orseno - Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer

    Donald Orseno, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at Metra, manages the institutional legacy and long-term planning for the commuter rail agency. Orseno focuses on the integration of legacy rail systems with modern transit requirements to ensure seamless service across the northeastern Illinois corridor. By leading cross-functional teams, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer addresses critical infrastructure challenges and regulatory compliance standards. This leadership role involves navigating complex stakeholder relationships to advance regional transit goals. Donald Orseno drives the development of safety protocols that protect both passengers and personnel throughout the expansive rail network. Through meticulous planning and oversight, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer sustains the reliability of the transit system. Ultimately, Orseno secures the future of the agency by prioritizing infrastructure resilience and consistent service delivery for all commuters.
    Donald Orseno

    Kevin McCann - Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer

    Kevin McCann, the Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at Metra, executes the daily operational strategies required to maintain the commuter rail system. McCann oversees the maintenance of rolling stock, track infrastructure, and station facilities across the six-county service area. By coordinating with department heads, the Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer ensures that all rail lines operate according to strict safety and efficiency standards. This leadership role involves managing the logistics of fleet deployment and personnel scheduling to meet peak commuter demand. Kevin McCann drives continuous improvement initiatives to reduce service delays and enhance the quality of the passenger experience. Through rigorous oversight of field operations, the Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer maintains the physical integrity of the transit network. Ultimately, McCann supports the agency's mission by ensuring reliable and safe daily transportation.

    Steven Radecki - Chief Information Officer

    Steven Radecki, the Chief Information Officer at Metra, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the commuter rail system. Radecki oversees the implementation of advanced ticketing platforms, real-time tracking systems, and cybersecurity measures to protect critical transit data. By modernizing internal communication networks, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity between administrative offices and field operations. This leadership role involves managing complex software integrations that support daily rail scheduling and passenger information services. Steven Radecki drives the adoption of data-driven analytics to optimize system performance and improve service reliability across the Chicago metropolitan area. Through the deployment of robust IT solutions, the Chief Information Officer enhances the overall efficiency of the agency. Ultimately, Radecki secures the technological foundation necessary for the continued modernization of the entire commuter rail network.
    Steven Radecki

    Brenda Smith - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Brenda Smith, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Metra, directs the talent acquisition, labor relations, and organizational development strategies for the commuter rail agency. Smith oversees the recruitment of specialized rail personnel and the administration of comprehensive training programs to ensure workforce readiness. By managing complex union negotiations and employee benefits, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a stable and productive work environment. This leadership role involves implementing policies that promote workplace safety, diversity, and professional growth across all departments. Brenda Smith drives initiatives to align human capital with the agency's long-term operational goals and service requirements. Through the development of effective performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains capable of meeting the demands of the regional transit system. Ultimately, Smith sustains the organizational culture necessary for operational success.

    Peter Zwolfer - Chief Operations Officer

    Peter Zwolfer, the Chief Operations Officer at Metra, manages the tactical execution of rail service delivery and terminal operations. Zwolfer oversees the coordination of train crews, dispatching centers, and station management to ensure adherence to strict safety protocols and service schedules. By analyzing operational data, the Chief Operations Officer identifies bottlenecks in the rail network and implements corrective measures to improve transit flow. This leadership role involves managing the day-to-day logistics of the entire commuter rail system across northeastern Illinois. Peter Zwolfer drives the implementation of operational best practices that enhance the reliability of the transit service for thousands of daily passengers. Through constant monitoring of field activities, the Chief Operations Officer maintains the high standards of performance expected by the agency. Ultimately, Zwolfer ensures the seamless functioning of the rail network through disciplined operational oversight.
    Peter Zwolfer

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Metra Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Metra?
    Metra is led by Yotam Keduri (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as James Derwinski (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer) and Donald Orseno (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Metra’s executive team?
    The executive team of Metra includes leaders such as Yotam Keduri (Chief Executive Officer), James Derwinski (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer), Donald Orseno (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Metra have?
    Metra has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Metra’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Metra includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer.