Pierce Transit Executive and Leadership Team

Michael Griffus, the Chief Executive Officer at Pierce Transit, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Griffus manages the alignment of public transportation services with the evolving needs of the Lakewood region and surrounding areas. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer ensures fiscal responsibility and operational excellence across all transit modalities. Michael Griffus maintains a focus on expanding access to jobs, schools, and essential appointments through robust infrastructure planning. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with local government entities to secure funding and support for long-term transit initiatives. Through the implementation of sustainable growth strategies, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of providing reliable, safe, and efficient mobility solutions. Ultimately, Griffus secures the future of the agency by prioritizing passenger needs and operational efficiency in every decision.

Christopher Schuler, the Executive Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Information Technology at Pierce Transit, manages the fiscal health and digital infrastructure of the agency. Schuler oversees complex budgeting processes, financial reporting, and the integration of advanced information technology systems to support transit operations. By optimizing resource allocation, the Executive Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Information Technology ensures that capital investments align with the long-term goals of the organization. Christopher Schuler directs the modernization of data systems to improve service delivery and administrative transparency. This role requires constant collaboration with other executive leaders to maintain financial stability while upgrading technological capabilities. Through rigorous oversight of financial assets and IT security, Schuler supports the delivery of high-quality transportation services. Ultimately, the Executive Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Information Technology guarantees the economic viability of the entire transit network.

Don Monroe, the President at Pierce Transit, directs the high-level organizational culture and external representation of the agency. Monroe oversees the alignment of corporate values with the public service mandate, ensuring that the organization remains a leader in the transportation industry. By engaging with community stakeholders and regional partners, the President fosters support for transit initiatives that connect residents to essential services. Don Monroe manages the executive team to ensure that strategic objectives are met with precision and accountability. This leadership role involves navigating the intersection of public policy and operational reality to advocate for improved mobility solutions. Through the promotion of innovation and service excellence, Monroe drives the agency toward long-term sustainability. Ultimately, the President provides the necessary guidance to maintain the reputation of the organization as a vital component of the regional infrastructure.

Amy Cleveland, the Chief Administrative Officer at Pierce Transit, directs the internal business functions and organizational policies that sustain daily operations. Cleveland oversees human resources, policy development, and administrative workflows to ensure a productive work environment for all staff. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief Administrative Officer supports the broader mission of providing reliable public transportation across the region. Amy Cleveland manages the implementation of corporate governance standards and compliance protocols to mitigate risk. This leadership role involves coordinating with department heads to align administrative support with the operational demands of fixed routes and paratransit services. Through the optimization of organizational structures, Cleveland enhances the efficiency of the agency. Ultimately, the Chief Administrative Officer maintains the operational backbone of the company, ensuring that all internal systems function seamlessly to serve the public.

Laurie Langlois, the Chief Operations Officer at Pierce Transit, directs the daily execution of fixed route, SHUTTLE paratransit, and vanpool services. Langlois oversees the deployment of vehicles, maintenance schedules, and driver management to ensure consistent service delivery for passengers. By monitoring operational performance metrics, the Chief Operations Officer identifies opportunities to improve transit reliability and safety across the service area. Laurie Langlois coordinates with maintenance teams and dispatchers to resolve logistical challenges in real-time. This role involves managing the complex interplay between fleet availability and passenger demand to maximize efficiency. Through the application of data-driven operational strategies, Langlois drives the expansion of transit access for commuters and students. Ultimately, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that the core transportation mission remains effective, reliable, and responsive to the needs of the community.

Stacy Van Horne, the Chief Communications Officer, Pio at Pierce Transit, directs all public outreach, media relations, and community engagement strategies. Van Horne oversees the dissemination of information regarding service changes, safety protocols, and transit benefits to the public. By managing the brand identity and messaging of the agency, the Chief Communications Officer, Pio ensures that passengers remain informed and connected to the services provided. Stacy Van Horne coordinates with local media and community groups to build trust and transparency. This role involves crafting communication campaigns that highlight the impact of public transportation on regional economic growth and social connectivity. Through the strategic use of digital and traditional media channels, Van Horne drives public awareness and ridership engagement. Ultimately, the Chief Communications Officer, Pio maintains the vital link between the agency and the community it serves.