Pace Executive and Leadership Team

Thomas Ross, the Chief Executive Officer at Pace, directs the overarching strategic vision for suburban transit operations. Ross architects long-term growth initiatives while ensuring the alignment of bus services with the evolving needs of the Chicago metropolitan area. By managing high-level stakeholder relationships, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary funding and policy support to maintain regional paratransit standards. Thomas Ross monitors performance metrics across all transit divisions to guarantee operational efficiency and service reliability. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine service delivery models. Through rigorous oversight of organizational goals, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of providing accessible transportation. Ultimately, Ross maintains the integrity of the transit network by prioritizing safety and fiscal responsibility in every strategic decision made for the organization.

Darrell Kerby, the Chief Executive Officer & President at Pace, manages the daily administrative functions and corporate governance of the transit division. Kerby executes complex operational policies that govern suburban bus routes and regional paratransit accessibility. As the primary representative for the organization, the Chief Executive Officer & President coordinates with regional transportation authorities to optimize transit connectivity. Darrell Kerby evaluates service expansion opportunities to better serve the diverse needs of the Chicago metropolitan area. This position requires constant monitoring of fleet maintenance and personnel management to ensure seamless daily operations. By fostering a culture of accountability, the Chief Executive Officer & President strengthens the operational framework of the entire agency. Kerby consistently delivers results by streamlining internal processes and enhancing the overall quality of public transit services provided to the community.

Jimmy Harris, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at Pace, establishes the foundational principles and long-term innovation roadmap for the agency. Harris drives the development of new transit technologies and service models designed to improve suburban mobility. As the Chief Executive Officer & Founder, the leader oversees the integration of sustainable practices into the existing bus and paratransit infrastructure. Jimmy Harris evaluates market trends to anticipate future transportation demands within the Chicago metropolitan area. This role involves mentoring senior leadership and maintaining the core mission of the organization through periods of rapid growth. By championing forward-thinking initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder ensures the agency remains a leader in regional transit solutions. Harris secures the future of the organization by balancing immediate operational requirements with a visionary approach to public transportation infrastructure and service delivery.

Dominick Cuomo, the Acting Manager, Internal Services and Chief Financial Officer at Pace, directs the fiscal health and internal administrative functions of the agency. Cuomo manages the annual budget, financial reporting, and resource allocation to support suburban transit operations. As the Acting Manager, Internal Services and Chief Financial Officer, the executive ensures that all financial activities align with the regulatory requirements of the Regional Transportation Authority. Dominick Cuomo oversees procurement processes and internal service contracts to maintain cost-effective operations. This role involves providing critical financial analysis to the Board to inform strategic decision-making regarding service expansion. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, the Acting Manager, Internal Services and Chief Financial Officer safeguards the long-term stability of the organization. Cuomo drives fiscal transparency and efficiency, ensuring that every dollar spent directly enhances the quality of public transportation services provided to the community.

Lindsey Umek, the Chief Operating Officer at Pace, manages the day-to-day execution of suburban bus routes and paratransit logistics. Umek oversees the deployment of transit assets to ensure maximum coverage across the Chicago metropolitan area. By optimizing scheduling and fleet utilization, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of service reliability for all passengers. Lindsey Umek coordinates with maintenance teams to ensure the safety and functionality of the entire bus fleet. This leadership role involves analyzing operational data to identify bottlenecks and implement corrective measures immediately. Through the management of field operations, the Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency and reduces service delays. Umek consistently monitors performance indicators to ensure that the transit division meets its operational targets. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission by delivering consistent, high-quality transportation services to the public.

Margaret Skogsbakken, the Chief Communications Officer at Pace, manages all public relations, media outreach, and community engagement initiatives. Skogsbakken architects the messaging strategy to ensure clear communication regarding bus schedules, service changes, and regional transit updates. As the Chief Communications Officer, the executive coordinates with local stakeholders and government agencies to promote the value of suburban transit services. Margaret Skogsbakken oversees the development of digital and print materials that inform the public about paratransit accessibility and new route options. This role involves managing crisis communications and maintaining a positive public image for the agency. By fostering strong relationships with the media and the community, the Chief Communications Officer drives public awareness and ridership growth. Skogsbakken ensures that all communications are consistent, accurate, and accessible, thereby strengthening the connection between the transit agency and the residents of the Chicago metropolitan area.

Lorraine Snorden, the Manager, Planning Services Department at Pace, directs the long-term development and design of suburban bus routes and transit networks. Snorden analyzes demographic data and ridership patterns to identify areas requiring improved transportation access within the Chicago metropolitan area. As the Manager, Planning Services Department, the leader coordinates with urban planners to integrate transit solutions into regional infrastructure projects. Lorraine Snorden evaluates the feasibility of new service routes and infrastructure upgrades to enhance overall network efficiency. This role involves conducting comprehensive studies to ensure that transit planning aligns with the evolving needs of suburban commuters. By utilizing advanced mapping and data analytics, the Manager, Planning Services Department drives the strategic expansion of the transit system. Snorden ensures that all planning initiatives support the agency's mission of providing reliable, accessible, and sustainable public transportation options for the entire region.