TSA Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

TSA has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, marketing, information technology, and union relations.

Driven by a mission to secure the traveling public, TSA is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of security across all modes of transportation, fostering a culture of vigilance and continuous improvement to protect national interests.

Leadership Roles at TSA

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mehrdad Najafi
  • Chief Financial Officer - Bonnie Saunders
  • LTSO and AFGE Union Local President - Cheryl Erbar
  • TSO and Local 0442 President - Janice Crowder
  • Chief of Staff - Ryan Propis
  • Chief Marketing Officer - John Sammon
  • Chief Information Officer - Vladimir Kutelmakh
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Janene Corrado
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Myung Kim
  • IT Assistant Administrator & Chief Information Officer - Opeyemi Oshinnaiye
  • Mehrdad Najafi - Chief Executive Officer

    Mehrdad Najafi, the Chief Executive Officer at TSA, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for the organization's critical security functions. This leadership role involves setting the strategic direction for safeguarding the traveling public across the United States, ensuring alignment with Department of Homeland Security objectives. Najafi oversees the implementation of advanced security protocols and technologies, driving efficiency and effectiveness in screening operations. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering inter-agency collaboration and managing relationships with key stakeholders to enhance national transportation security. By championing innovation and operational excellence, Mehrdad Najafi ensures TSA maintains its position at the forefront of security administration, adapting to evolving threats and maintaining public trust.

    Bonnie Saunders - Chief Financial Officer

    Bonnie Saunders, the Chief Financial Officer at TSA, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the agency's extensive security operations. This executive function involves developing and executing financial strategies that support TSA's mission of securing the traveling public. Saunders oversees budgeting, financial planning, and expenditure management, ensuring optimal use of resources across screening agents, air marshals, and canine units. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include financial reporting, risk management, and ensuring compliance with federal financial regulations. By driving financial discipline and strategic investment, Bonnie Saunders enables TSA to effectively deploy its personnel and technology, thereby enhancing national transportation security and operational readiness.

    Cheryl Erbar - LTSO and AFGE Union Local President

    Cheryl Erbar, the LTSO and AFGE Union Local President at TSA, represents the interests of unionized employees, fostering a collaborative relationship between labor and management to ensure effective security operations. This leadership position involves advocating for the rights and well-being of Transportation Security Officers, promoting fair labor practices, and contributing to a productive work environment. Erbar works to address employee concerns, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, and ensure compliance with union contracts, thereby supporting the operational readiness of TSA's frontline personnel. The LTSO and AFGE Union Local President's responsibilities include facilitating communication between union members and TSA leadership, resolving workplace disputes, and promoting employee engagement. By championing employee welfare and fostering constructive dialogue, Cheryl Erbar supports TSA's mission to secure the traveling public.

    Janice Crowder - TSO and Local 0442 President

    Janice Crowder, the TSO and Local 0442 President at TSA, serves as a key representative for Transportation Security Officers, advocating for their needs and fostering a positive working environment. This role involves direct engagement with union members, addressing operational challenges, and ensuring adherence to collective bargaining agreements. Crowder works to bridge communication between TSOs and TSA management, promoting effective collaboration to enhance security screening processes and overall operational efficiency. The TSO and Local 0442 President's responsibilities include representing employee interests in grievance procedures, supporting professional development initiatives, and contributing to the implementation of security protocols. By championing the TSO workforce, Janice Crowder supports TSA's critical mission of safeguarding national transportation.

    Ryan Propis - Chief of Staff

    Ryan Propis, the Chief of Staff at TSA, orchestrates the strategic initiatives and operational coordination across various departments to advance the agency's security mandate. This pivotal role involves managing the flow of information and priorities between the executive leadership and operational units, ensuring seamless execution of security directives. Propis oversees the development and implementation of key organizational projects, driving efficiency and effectiveness in safeguarding the traveling public. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include facilitating cross-functional collaboration, advising executive leadership on critical matters, and ensuring strategic alignment with national security goals. By streamlining operations and enhancing communication channels, Ryan Propis supports TSA's mission to protect transportation systems and maintain public confidence.

    John Sammon - Chief Marketing Officer

    John Sammon, the Chief Marketing Officer at TSA, leads the strategic communication and public engagement efforts to inform and educate the traveling public about security protocols and initiatives. This executive function focuses on building trust and understanding, ensuring clear dissemination of information regarding screening procedures and safety measures. Sammon oversees the development and execution of comprehensive marketing and outreach campaigns, utilizing various channels to reach diverse audiences across the United States. The Chief Marketing Officer's responsibilities include managing the TSA brand, enhancing public perception, and fostering a collaborative relationship with travelers to support the agency's security mission. By driving effective communication strategies, John Sammon ensures the public remains informed and supportive of TSA's vital role in national transportation security.
    John Sammon

    Vladimir Kutelmakh - Chief Information Officer

    Vladimir Kutelmakh, the Chief Information Officer at TSA, directs the technological infrastructure and information systems that underpin the agency's security operations. This critical role involves architecting and implementing robust IT solutions to enhance screening efficiency, data management, and communication across TSA's nationwide network. Kutelmakh oversees the development and deployment of secure digital platforms, ensuring the integrity and accessibility of information vital to safeguarding the traveling public. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include cybersecurity, data analytics, and the integration of emerging technologies to counter evolving threats. By driving technological innovation and operational resilience, Vladimir Kutelmakh ensures TSA leverages cutting-edge IT to maintain the highest standards of transportation security.
    Vladimir Kutelmakh

    Janene Corrado - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Janene Corrado, the Deputy Chief of Staff at TSA, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic priorities and ensuring operational continuity across the organization. This role involves assisting in the coordination of key initiatives, facilitating interdepartmental communication, and managing critical projects that enhance TSA's security posture. Corrado contributes to the development and implementation of policies and procedures designed to safeguard the traveling public, working closely with various operational units. The Deputy Chief of Staff's responsibilities include analyzing operational data, identifying areas for improvement, and supporting executive leadership in decision-making processes. By providing dedicated support and strategic insight, Janene Corrado strengthens TSA's capacity to effectively manage its nationwide security operations.

    Myung Kim - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Myung Kim, the Deputy Chief of Staff at TSA, collaborates with the Chief of Staff to drive strategic objectives and enhance operational effectiveness in securing transportation systems. This position involves supporting the execution of critical agency-wide projects, streamlining internal processes, and ensuring alignment across diverse operational teams. Kim contributes to the strategic planning and implementation of security measures designed to protect the traveling public, working to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency. The Deputy Chief of Staff's responsibilities include facilitating communication between leadership and field personnel, analyzing performance metrics, and contributing to policy development. Through dedicated support and strategic oversight, Myung Kim reinforces TSA's commitment to maintaining robust national security.

    Opeyemi Oshinnaiye - IT Assistant Administrator & Chief Information Officer

    Opeyemi Oshinnaiye, the IT Assistant Administrator & Chief Information Officer at TSA, plays a dual role in managing information technology operations and assisting the Chief Information Officer in strategic technology planning. This executive function focuses on the day-to-day administration of IT systems and the implementation of technology solutions that support TSA's security mission. Oshinnaiye oversees the maintenance and enhancement of the agency's IT infrastructure, ensuring reliability and security for all operational needs. The IT Assistant Administrator & Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include supporting cybersecurity initiatives, managing IT projects, and ensuring compliance with federal technology standards. By ensuring robust IT support, Opeyemi Oshinnaiye contributes significantly to TSA's ability to effectively secure the traveling public.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding TSA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads TSA?
    TSA is led by Mehrdad Najafi (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bonnie Saunders (Chief Financial Officer) and Cheryl Erbar (LTSO and AFGE Union Local President).
    Who is part of TSA’s executive team?
    The executive team of TSA includes leaders such as Mehrdad Najafi (Chief Executive Officer), Bonnie Saunders (Chief Financial Officer), Cheryl Erbar (LTSO and AFGE Union Local President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does TSA have?
    TSA has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in TSA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of TSA includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, LTSO and AFGE Union Local President, TSO and Local 0442 President, Chief of Staff.