Metro Executive and Leadership Team

Desiree Portillo-Rabinov, the President at Metro, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the agency's multifaceted operations. Portillo-Rabinov guides Metro's role as a transportation planner, coordinator, designer, builder, and operator, serving over 10 million residents within its expansive 1,433-square-mile jurisdiction. This leadership position involves overseeing critical policy decisions and ensuring the agency's alignment with regional transportation goals. Desiree Portillo-Rabinov champions initiatives that enhance service delivery and foster innovation across all departments. The President's vision is instrumental in advancing Metro's mission to provide essential and efficient transit solutions for the most populous county in the nation.

Bill Van Zwol, the President at Metro, directs high-level strategy and operational oversight for the agency's extensive transportation network. Van Zwol guides Metro's comprehensive functions, including planning, design, construction, and operation, serving the diverse needs of over 10 million people across its service area. This executive leadership role focuses on ensuring the agency's strategic objectives are met and that services are delivered effectively and efficiently. Bill Van Zwol is committed to advancing Metro's mission by fostering collaboration and driving performance improvements throughout the organization. The President's influence is key to maintaining Metro's position as a vital transportation provider for the nation's largest county.

Bryan Sastokas, the Chief Information Officer at Metro, directs the agency's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Sastokas ensures the robust and secure functioning of systems critical to Metro's service delivery across its 1,433-square-mile operational area. This leadership role involves architecting scalable technology solutions that support efficient transportation planning, coordination, and real-time service management for nearly a quarter of California's population. Bryan Sastokas drives innovation in data analytics and cybersecurity, safeguarding sensitive information and enhancing operational performance. The Chief Information Officer's initiatives directly contribute to Metro's mission of providing seamless and reliable transit options, optimizing resource allocation, and improving the overall rider experience through advanced technological integration.

Elba Higueros, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Metro, supports the executive leadership in executing strategic initiatives and operational directives. Higueros manages critical administrative functions and facilitates interdepartmental communication, ensuring alignment across Metro's diverse operations as a transportation planner, designer, builder, and operator. This role involves coordinating high-level projects and policy implementation that affect the 10 million residents within Metro's service area. Elba Higueros contributes to the efficient functioning of the agency by streamlining processes and supporting the Chief of Staff in overseeing daily operations. The Deputy Chief of Staff's efforts are vital for maintaining the agency's capacity to serve its vast region effectively and advance its mission of providing essential transportation services.

Conan Cheung, the Chief Operations Officer at Metro, directs the day-to-day execution of transportation services across the agency's extensive network. Cheung oversees the operational efficiency of Metro's planning, design, construction, and service delivery functions, impacting over 10 million people in its 1,433-square-mile service area. This critical role involves managing a vast workforce and complex logistical operations to ensure reliable transit for Southern California. Conan Cheung drives performance improvements and maintains the highest standards of safety and service quality. The Chief Operations Officer's leadership is fundamental to Metro's ability to function as a cohesive transportation entity, coordinating resources and optimizing routes to meet the demands of the nation's most populous county.

Cristian Leiva, the Deputy Chief People Officer, Labor & Employee Relations at Metro, oversees critical human capital functions and labor relations strategies. Leiva manages employee engagement, development, and the complex landscape of labor agreements that support Metro's extensive workforce. This role is vital for maintaining a productive and harmonious work environment across the agency's diverse operational units. Cristian Leiva ensures that Metro's personnel policies align with its mission to serve over 10 million residents effectively. The Deputy Chief People Officer's dedication to employee well-being and fair labor practices is fundamental to the agency's ability to execute its transportation planning, design, building, and operational responsibilities.

Robert Spadafora, the Senior Executive Officer, Rail Fleet Services at Metro, leads the comprehensive management and maintenance of the agency's rail vehicle fleet. Spadafora ensures the operational readiness and safety of all rail cars, which are integral to Metro's service for millions of commuters across its vast operational region. This executive oversees all aspects of fleet acquisition, maintenance schedules, and technological upgrades, directly impacting service reliability and passenger experience. Robert Spadafora's expertise is crucial for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the rail infrastructure that serves the country's largest county. The Senior Executive Officer's strategic direction guarantees that Metro's rail services remain dependable and meet the evolving needs of the community.