Metro Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Metro has 7 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Metro operates as a comprehensive transportation planner, designer, builder, and operator, serving over 10 million residents across a vast 1,433-square-mile area in the nation's most populous county.

Leadership Roles at Metro

  • President - Bill Van Zwol
  • President - Desiree Portillo-Rabinov
  • Chief Information Officer - Bryan Sastokas
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Elba Higueros
  • Chief Operations Officer - Conan Cheung
  • Deputy Chief People Officer, Labor & Employee Relations - Cristian Leiva
  • Senior Executive Officer, Rail Fleet Services - Robert Spadafora
  • Bill Van Zwol - President

    Bill Van Zwol, the President at Metro, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the agency's comprehensive transportation services. Van Zwol guides the organization in its role as planner, designer, builder, and operator for the nation's largest county, serving over 10 million people. This presidency involves overseeing all facets of Metro's operations across its 1,433-square-mile service area, ensuring alignment with public service goals and fiscal responsibility. Bill Van Zwol drives the vision for enhancing mobility and connectivity within the region. The President's leadership is fundamental to Metro's mission of providing essential transportation infrastructure and services.

    Desiree Portillo-Rabinov - President

    Desiree Portillo-Rabinov, the President at Metro, provides strategic oversight and executive leadership for the agency's multifaceted transportation initiatives. Portillo-Rabinov guides Metro's comprehensive approach to planning, designing, building, and operating services for over 10 million residents across a 1,433-square-mile region. This leadership position involves ensuring the agency effectively meets the diverse mobility needs of the county while upholding its commitment to public service. Desiree Portillo-Rabinov drives the strategic vision for enhancing regional connectivity and operational effectiveness. The President's role is integral to Metro's function as a vital transportation planner and operator.
    Desiree Portillo-Rabinov

    Bryan Sastokas - Chief Information Officer

    Bryan Sastokas, the Chief Information Officer at Metro, directs the agency's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Sastokas ensures the seamless integration of digital solutions that support Metro's extensive transportation network. This leadership involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data analytics platforms, and the development of innovative technological tools to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience across the 1,433-square-mile service area. Bryan Sastokas drives the digital transformation initiatives critical for managing a complex transit system serving over 10 million people. The Chief Information Officer's role is pivotal in maintaining system reliability and advancing technological capabilities to meet future transportation demands.

    Elba Higueros - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Elba Higueros, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Metro, supports the executive leadership in strategic planning and operational execution. Higueros facilitates interdepartmental communication and ensures alignment with the agency's mission to serve over 10 million residents. This role involves coordinating key initiatives, managing special projects, and providing critical support to the Chief of Staff in overseeing the agency's vast operations across 1,433 square miles. Elba Higueros contributes to the efficient functioning of Metro by streamlining administrative processes and driving policy implementation. The Deputy Chief of Staff's focus is on enhancing organizational effectiveness and supporting the strategic direction of the transportation network.

    Conan Cheung - Chief Operations Officer

    Conan Cheung, the Chief Operations Officer at Metro, orchestrates the daily functioning of the agency's extensive transportation services. Overseeing a vast network that serves over 10 million people, Cheung directs bus and rail operations, maintenance, and service delivery across the 1,433-square-mile service area. This leadership position involves ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of all transit operations, managing a large workforce, and implementing strategies to optimize service performance. Conan Cheung drives operational excellence, directly impacting the commuter experience and the agency's ability to meet the mobility needs of Southern California. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities are central to Metro's mission as a comprehensive transportation provider.
    Conan Cheung

    Cristian Leiva - Deputy Chief People Officer, Labor & Employee Relations

    Cristian Leiva, the Deputy Chief People Officer, Labor & Employee Relations at Metro, manages critical human capital functions and labor negotiations. Leiva oversees employee relations, workforce development, and ensures compliance with labor laws for an organization serving over 10 million residents. This role is vital in fostering a productive work environment and maintaining positive relationships with employee unions across the 1,433-square-mile operational footprint. Cristian Leiva plays a key part in shaping the employee experience and supporting the agency's workforce strategy. The Deputy Chief People Officer's expertise in labor dynamics is essential for the smooth operation of Metro's diverse workforce.

    Robert Spadafora - Senior Executive Officer, Rail Fleet Services

    Robert Spadafora, the Senior Executive Officer, Rail Fleet Services at Metro, directs the maintenance, management, and operational readiness of the agency's rail vehicle fleet. Spadafora oversees all aspects of the rail car services, ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the rolling stock that serves over 10 million passengers. This critical role involves managing fleet modernization programs, maintenance schedules, and technical support across the extensive rail network within the 1,433-square-mile service area. Robert Spadafora ensures the integrity and performance of the rail fleet, which is fundamental to Metro's public transportation mission. The Senior Executive Officer's focus is on maintaining a state-of-the-art fleet to support daily operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Metro Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Metro?
    Metro is led by Bill Van Zwol (President), along with executives such as Desiree Portillo-Rabinov (President) and Bryan Sastokas (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Metro’s executive team?
    The executive team of Metro includes leaders such as Bill Van Zwol (President), Desiree Portillo-Rabinov (President), Bryan Sastokas (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Metro have?
    Metro has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Metro’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Metro includes roles such as President, President, Chief Information Officer, Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Operations Officer.