SEPTA Executive and Leadership Team

Erik Johanson, the Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer at SEPTA, manages the financial health and capital investment strategies of the transit authority. Overseeing the allocation of funds for infrastructure maintenance and fleet expansion, the Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer ensures the long-term sustainability of the regional transportation network. Erik Johanson directs the budgeting process and monitors revenue streams from fare collection and government subsidies. By optimizing financial reporting and risk management protocols, the Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of transit services across southeastern Pennsylvania. This leadership role involves coordinating with external stakeholders and the Board to secure necessary capital for major transit projects. Through disciplined fiscal management, the Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial stability required to operate extensive bus, subway, and commuter rail systems. Ultimately, Johanson secures the resources needed to sustain high-quality public transit operations.

Elisa Cunningham, the Chief Technology Officer at SEPTA, directs the digital transformation of the regional transit network. Overseeing the implementation of advanced mobile applications and real-time service tracking systems, the Chief Technology Officer ensures seamless connectivity for passengers across the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. Elisa Cunningham architects scalable cloud infrastructure to support complex data processing requirements for bus, subway, and commuter rail operations. By modernizing legacy hardware and software, the Chief Technology Officer drives operational efficiency and improves the overall commuter experience. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the Board to secure funding for critical cybersecurity initiatives and network upgrades. Through the deployment of cutting-edge transit technology, the Chief Technology Officer maintains the integrity of the entire transportation ecosystem. Ultimately, Cunningham optimizes digital assets to facilitate reliable, high-speed transit services throughout the region.

Jessica Herman, the Chief of Staff at SEPTA, manages the internal administrative operations and strategic alignment of the executive leadership team. Coordinating cross-departmental workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that the organization meets its public service mandates while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Jessica Herman facilitates communication between the executive office and various transit divisions to streamline decision-making processes. By overseeing the execution of long-term organizational goals, the Chief of Staff drives performance improvements across all bus, rail, and trolley services. This leadership role involves managing high-level projects that impact the entire southeastern Pennsylvania transit network. Through rigorous oversight of internal policies and operational standards, the Chief of Staff supports the mission of providing reliable transportation solutions. Ultimately, Herman fosters a culture of accountability and operational excellence within the authority to ensure consistent service delivery for the public.

William Webster, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at SEPTA, directs the public relations and stakeholder engagement strategies for the transit authority. Overseeing the dissemination of service updates and community outreach programs, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) ensures transparency and clear communication with the public. William Webster manages the brand identity and media relations to maintain positive public perception of the extensive bus, rail, and trolley network. By crafting strategic messaging for major service changes and infrastructure projects, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) drives public awareness and ridership growth. This leadership role involves collaborating with local government agencies and community groups to address transit needs across the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. Through effective communication channels, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) builds trust and fosters support for regional transportation initiatives. Ultimately, Webster ensures that the public remains informed and engaged with the transit services provided.