Pierce Transit Executive and Leadership Team

Michael Griffus, the Chief Executive Officer at Pierce Transit, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. This leadership role involves managing the complex public transportation network across the Lakewood region to ensure reliable access to jobs and schools. Michael Griffus maintains alignment with the Board of Commissioners while overseeing the integration of Fixed Route, SHUTTLE paratransit, and Vanpool services. By prioritizing fiscal responsibility and community engagement, the Chief Executive Officer drives long-term sustainability for the agency. The executive monitors performance metrics to optimize service delivery across the entire transit system. Through constant evaluation of market needs, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary resources to expand public transit reach. This position requires balancing public policy requirements with operational efficiency to maintain the status of the agency as a nationally recognized leader in the transportation industry.

Christopher Schuler, the Executive Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Information Technology at Pierce Transit, manages the fiscal health and digital infrastructure of the agency. This role involves architecting robust financial models to support the expansion of transit services throughout the Washington region. Christopher Schuler oversees the allocation of capital budgets, ensuring that funding for Fixed Route and Vanpool operations remains stable. Simultaneously, the Executive Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Information Technology directs the modernization of internal IT systems to improve data security and operational transparency. By coordinating with other C-suite leaders, the executive ensures that technology investments directly support the core mission of providing accessible public transportation. This leadership function requires rigorous oversight of financial reporting and compliance standards. Through precise management of fiscal assets, the executive secures the financial foundation necessary for the agency to meet evolving community transit demands.

Don Monroe, the President at Pierce Transit, provides high-level leadership and represents the agency in external partnerships and community initiatives. This role involves advocating for public transportation funding and policy support to enhance the reach of Fixed Route and Vanpool services. Don Monroe directs the engagement efforts with regional stakeholders to ensure that the transit strategy aligns with the evolving needs of the Lakewood population. By fostering strong relationships with local government and community organizations, the President secures the support necessary for large-scale transit projects. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of the public transportation industry to guide the agency through complex market shifts. Through the promotion of the organizational mission, the executive drives public awareness and ridership growth. The President ensures that the agency remains focused on its core objective of providing equitable and efficient transportation solutions for all residents across the service area.

Amy Cleveland, the Chief Administrative Officer at Pierce Transit, governs the internal organizational structures and human capital strategies that sustain the agency. This role involves streamlining administrative processes to enhance the efficiency of the workforce supporting Fixed Route and SHUTTLE paratransit services. Amy Cleveland directs the development of corporate policies that align with the mission of providing reliable transportation to the Lakewood community. By fostering a culture of professional excellence, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all departments maintain high standards of service delivery. This leadership position requires close collaboration with the Board to implement governance frameworks that support long-term organizational growth. Through the management of administrative functions, the executive facilitates seamless communication across the agency. The Chief Administrative Officer ultimately strengthens the internal capacity of the organization to meet the diverse mobility needs of passengers across the entire regional service area.

Laurie Langlois, the Chief Operations Officer at Pierce Transit, oversees the daily execution of all transit services, including Fixed Route, SHUTTLE paratransit, and Vanpool operations. This role involves managing the fleet and personnel required to maintain consistent service levels across the Washington region. Laurie Langlois directs the implementation of operational protocols that prioritize passenger safety and schedule adherence. By analyzing route performance data, the Chief Operations Officer identifies opportunities to optimize transit efficiency and reduce wait times for commuters. This leadership function requires constant coordination with maintenance teams to ensure the reliability of the vehicle fleet. Through the strategic deployment of resources, the executive supports the broader mission of connecting residents to essential services. The Chief Operations Officer maintains a focus on operational excellence to ensure that the agency remains a dependable transportation partner for the community, driving continuous improvement in service quality and accessibility.