Valley Metro Executive and Leadership Team

Richard Simonetta, the Chief Executive Officer at Valley Metro, directs the overarching strategic vision for the regional public transportation network. Overseeing the planning and construction of transit infrastructure, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with long-term urban mobility goals. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and securing funding for critical system expansions. By prioritizing safety and operational efficiency, Richard Simonetta drives the organization toward achieving high-capacity transit benchmarks. The Chief Executive Officer maintains constant communication with the Board to refine service delivery models. Through rigorous oversight of capital projects, Simonetta secures the future of regional transit connectivity. This executive leadership ensures that the agency meets the evolving needs of the growing population while maintaining fiscal responsibility across all departments. Ultimately, Simonetta fosters a culture of excellence and innovation within the entire transit ecosystem.

Donald Schneidmiller, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Valley Metro, manages the daily operational execution of bus and rail transit services. Overseeing the maintenance of the fleet and infrastructure, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer ensures that service reliability remains at peak performance levels. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-departmental efforts to optimize route efficiency and passenger safety. By implementing advanced transit management technologies, Donald Schneidmiller improves the overall quality of the regional transportation experience. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer works closely with operational managers to resolve service disruptions and enhance system capacity. Through meticulous attention to operational metrics, Schneidmiller drives continuous improvement in service delivery. This role requires balancing immediate service demands with long-term maintenance requirements to ensure the longevity of the transit network. Ultimately, Schneidmiller maintains the integrity of the entire public transportation system.

Melissa Boyles, the Chief of Staff at Valley Metro, coordinates executive workflows and facilitates communication between the leadership team and internal departments. Overseeing the administrative processes that support strategic initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational goals receive proper attention and resources. This leadership role involves managing the executive office agenda and preparing critical briefings for the Board. By streamlining internal decision-making protocols, Melissa Boyles enhances the agility of the agency. The Chief of Staff monitors the progress of key projects to ensure adherence to timelines and quality standards. Through effective project management, Boyles drives organizational alignment and operational transparency. This role requires deep understanding of the agency's mission to provide seamless support for the executive team. Ultimately, Boyles optimizes the internal environment to allow for efficient execution of all regional transit objectives.

Penny Lynch, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Valley Metro, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the agency. Overseeing the recruitment of skilled transit professionals, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization maintains a high-performing workforce capable of managing complex transportation systems. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. By implementing competitive compensation and benefits structures, Penny Lynch improves employee retention and engagement. The Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with department heads to align staffing levels with operational requirements. Through proactive talent management, Lynch drives the development of future leaders within the transit sector. This role requires balancing labor relations with organizational growth objectives to ensure a stable and motivated workforce. Ultimately, Lynch secures the human capital necessary for long-term success.

Alexis Kinsey, the Senior Advisor & Chief of Staff at Valley Metro, provides high-level strategic counsel to the executive leadership team regarding regional transit policy. Overseeing the integration of policy initiatives into operational plans, the Senior Advisor & Chief of Staff ensures that the agency remains responsive to legislative changes and community needs. This leadership role involves analyzing complex data to inform decision-making processes and long-term planning. By facilitating collaboration between external partners and internal teams, Alexis Kinsey strengthens the agency's position within the regional transportation landscape. The Senior Advisor & Chief of Staff manages special projects that require cross-functional expertise and executive oversight. Through strategic guidance, Kinsey drives the implementation of policies that enhance service accessibility and system sustainability. This role requires a deep understanding of the regulatory environment and the ability to translate policy into actionable transit solutions. Ultimately, Kinsey supports the agency's mission through expert strategic planning.

Michael Wawro, the Chief Legal Officer at Valley Metro, manages all legal affairs, regulatory compliance, and risk management initiatives for the agency. Overseeing the legal framework for infrastructure contracts and public transit operations, the Chief Legal Officer ensures that all activities adhere to state and federal transportation laws. This leadership role involves providing counsel on complex litigation, labor disputes, and procurement processes. By mitigating legal risks, Michael Wawro protects the agency's assets and reputation. The Chief Legal Officer works closely with the Board to ensure governance standards remain high. Through rigorous contract review and policy analysis, Wawro drives the legal strategy that supports the agency's expansion and operational goals. This role requires balancing legal requirements with the need for efficient service delivery to the public. Ultimately, Wawro provides the necessary legal foundation for the agency to operate safely and effectively within the regional transportation sector.

Angie DeVore, the Interim Chief Administrative Officer at Valley Metro, directs the internal business functions and administrative support systems that enable daily transit operations. Overseeing the procurement, facilities management, and information technology departments, the Interim Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the agency has the necessary resources to function efficiently. This leadership role involves optimizing internal processes to reduce costs and improve service delivery speed. By managing the administrative infrastructure, Angie DeVore supports the broader mission of providing reliable public transportation. The Interim Chief Administrative Officer collaborates with other executives to align administrative support with the agency's strategic priorities. Through effective resource allocation, DeVore drives operational efficiency across all business units. This role requires a focus on continuous improvement and the ability to manage diverse administrative functions in a fast-paced environment. Ultimately, DeVore maintains the operational backbone of the entire organization.