Regional Transit Authority Executive and Leadership Team

Lona Hankins, the Chief Executive Officer at Regional Transit Authority, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the transit services across New Orleans. This leadership role involves guiding the organization's mission to provide essential mobility for commuters, students, and tourists, ensuring seamless connections to employment, educational institutions, and the city's rich cultural attractions. Hankins oversees the integration of bus and streetcar services, aiming to enhance rider experience and operational efficiency. The Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to fostering innovation within the transit system, making it a symbol of the city and a destination in itself. By driving strategic initiatives, Lona Hankins ensures the Regional Transit Authority remains a vital component of New Orleans' daily life and economic vitality, facilitating access to entertainment, shopping, and historical neighborhoods for both residents and visitors.

Joe Calabrese, the Chief Executive Officer & General Manager at Regional Transit Authority, executes the comprehensive operational and strategic vision for New Orleans' transit network. This dual role encompasses direct oversight of daily operations, ensuring the reliable movement of commuters, students, and tourists throughout the city. Calabrese manages the integration of bus and streetcar services, focusing on service delivery, infrastructure maintenance, and service expansion to meet community needs. The Chief Executive Officer & General Manager's responsibilities include driving efficiency across all departments, from service planning to fleet management, and ensuring the transit system functions as a critical artery for the city. By championing service excellence, Joe Calabrese reinforces the Regional Transit Authority's role as both a functional necessity and an iconic representation of New Orleans, connecting people to jobs, schools, and the vibrant cultural landscape.

Gizelle Johnson-Banks, the Chief Financial Officer at Regional Transit Authority, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. This critical leadership position involves overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and fiscal strategy to ensure the sustainable operation of the transit services across New Orleans. Johnson-Banks manages financial resources, optimizing expenditures for bus and streetcar operations while identifying opportunities for revenue enhancement and cost control. The Chief Financial Officer's purview includes managing capital investments, securing funding for infrastructure improvements, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. By maintaining fiscal discipline and strategic financial oversight, Gizelle Johnson-Banks supports the Regional Transit Authority's mission to provide essential mobility, enabling commuters, students, and tourists to access employment, education, and the city's attractions effectively and efficiently.

Seandra Buchanan, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Regional Transit Authority, leads all aspects of human capital management and organizational development. This executive role focuses on attracting, retaining, and developing a skilled workforce essential for operating New Orleans' transit services. Buchanan oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and training programs, ensuring the Regional Transit Authority has the necessary personnel to support its mission. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic initiatives aim to foster a positive and productive work environment, aligning HR practices with the company's operational goals and commitment to service excellence. By championing employee engagement and professional growth, Seandra Buchanan ensures the team driving the buses and streetcars is equipped to serve commuters, students, and tourists, contributing to the city's mobility and cultural vibrancy.