SEPTA Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

SEPTA has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, strategic planning, infrastructure management, corporate communications, and executive leadership.

Committed to regional mobility, SEPTA delivers integrated transit solutions across southeastern Pennsylvania to ensure reliable commuter access and sustainable metropolitan connectivity.

Leadership Roles at SEPTA

  • Chief Operating Officer - Scott Sauer
  • Co President - Jessica Leeds
  • Chief Communications Officer (Cco) - William Webster
  • Deputy Director - Howard Devine
  • Deputy Director - Joseph Goldberg
  • Scott Sauer - Chief Operating Officer

    Scott Sauer, the Chief Operating Officer at SEPTA, governs the daily execution of bus, subway, and commuter rail services. Sauer manages the workforce responsible for vehicle operation and field maintenance across the entire transit network. By implementing rigorous safety protocols, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that all transit services meet strict regulatory standards for passenger protection. Scott Sauer directs the deployment of mobile applications for real-time service updates, improving communication between the transit authority and daily commuters. This leadership role requires constant vigilance over service reliability and on-time performance metrics. Through the optimization of transit routes and schedules, the Chief Operating Officer maximizes the efficiency of the existing fleet. Sauer coordinates with maintenance teams to reduce vehicle downtime and extend the operational lifespan of critical equipment. This focus on service delivery excellence directly impacts the daily experience of thousands of travelers, reinforcing the reliability of the regional transportation system.

    Jessica Leeds - Co President

    Jessica Leeds, the Co President at SEPTA, shapes the overarching corporate strategy and financial health of the organization. Leeds oversees the development of long-term fiscal policies and revenue generation models to support the expansion of public transit services. By collaborating with the Board and other executive leaders, the Co President aligns organizational objectives with the evolving needs of the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. Jessica Leeds drives initiatives focused on sustainability and environmental impact, ensuring that the transit network contributes to regional climate goals. This leadership role involves managing high-level partnerships with government agencies and private sector entities to secure necessary resources. Through the evaluation of market trends and ridership patterns, the Co President identifies opportunities for service innovation and growth. Leeds maintains a focus on organizational transparency and accountability, fostering trust with the public. This strategic guidance ensures that the authority remains a resilient and effective provider of essential transportation services.

    William Webster - Chief Communications Officer (Cco)

    William Webster, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at SEPTA, manages all public relations, media outreach, and community engagement efforts. Webster directs the dissemination of information regarding service changes, safety alerts, and infrastructure projects to the general public. By crafting clear and consistent messaging, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) builds public awareness and support for transit initiatives. William Webster oversees the digital presence of the organization, ensuring that commuters receive accurate and timely updates through various communication channels. This leadership role requires managing relationships with local media outlets and community organizations to address public concerns and feedback. Through the development of comprehensive communication strategies, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) enhances the reputation of the transit authority. Webster coordinates with internal departments to ensure that all public-facing information is accurate and aligned with corporate goals. This focus on effective communication fosters a positive relationship between the transit authority and the diverse communities served across the region.

    Howard Devine - Deputy Director

    Howard Devine, the Deputy Director at SEPTA, manages internal administrative workflows and organizational efficiency. Devine oversees the integration of bus and rail scheduling to optimize transit throughput across the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. By coordinating with department heads, the Deputy Director ensures that daily service delivery aligns with long-term public transportation goals. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of transit station performance and facility maintenance standards. Howard Devine drives operational improvements by analyzing ridership data and adjusting resource allocation to meet fluctuating commuter demand. Through rigorous oversight of regional transit assets, the Deputy Director maintains the integrity of the entire network. Devine facilitates cross-departmental collaboration to resolve logistical bottlenecks, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of the system. This focus on operational excellence supports the broader mission of providing seamless, high-quality transportation services to the public throughout the entire southeastern Pennsylvania region.

    Joseph Goldberg - Deputy Director

    Joseph Goldberg, the Deputy Director at SEPTA, directs strategic capital projects and infrastructure development initiatives. Goldberg manages the modernization of transit facilities and the procurement of new rolling stock to improve passenger experience. By supervising engineering teams, the Deputy Director ensures that all construction and maintenance projects adhere to safety regulations and budgetary constraints. Joseph Goldberg architects long-term expansion plans for the light rail and trolley networks to accommodate growing urban populations. This leadership role involves frequent engagement with regional stakeholders to secure funding and support for critical transit upgrades. Through the implementation of advanced technology in station management, the Deputy Director enhances system security and accessibility. Goldberg monitors the progress of infrastructure improvements to guarantee timely completion of all capital investments. This commitment to physical asset development strengthens the foundation of the transit network, ensuring that the organization remains a vital component of the regional transportation infrastructure.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SEPTA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SEPTA?
    SEPTA is led by Scott Sauer (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Jessica Leeds (Co President) and William Webster (Chief Communications Officer (Cco)).
    Who is part of SEPTA’s executive team?
    The executive team of SEPTA includes leaders such as Scott Sauer (Chief Operating Officer), Jessica Leeds (Co President), William Webster (Chief Communications Officer (Cco)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SEPTA have?
    SEPTA has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SEPTA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SEPTA includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Co President, Chief Communications Officer (Cco), Deputy Director, Deputy Director.