The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) has finally named its new Chief Executive Officer. Lali, a former New York City Transit executive, joins the agency’s leadership team following an extensive national search by the selection committee. Lali will step into the new leadership role after Rick Leary’s sudden resignation last June. Prior to that, Lali was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Subways at New York City Transit (NYCT).
Lali comes to the TTC with a wealth of experience. She most recently oversaw a department of some 22,000 workers at NYCT, a division of the expansive Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). His background in overseeing one of the largest transit systems in North America equips him with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges faced by Toronto’s transit network.
The selection committee that appointed Lali included some heavy-hitters. Among them were Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, TTC Chair Jamaal Myers, former Vice-Chair Joanne De Laurentiis, Commissioner Paul Ainslie, and City Manager Paul Johnson. This extraordinarily diverse group engaged in a thorough search process. Their goal was to identify a strong candidate who would be able to carry the TTC through their further expansion and continued momentum of innovation projects.
Rick Leary took up the title of interim CEO in December 2017. By July 2018, he had officially became the permanent CEO. During his tenure, the TTC faced many unprecedented challenges. When he announced his resignation, it became a turning point for the organization. Her appointment heralds a new season for the commission, as it looks to start a new era of improving statewide services and infrastructure.
Today the TTC is faced with a dramatic shift, with greater expectations than ever for quick, effective, public transit as the cure for many ills. Lali’s extensive experience with NYCT is sure to be invaluable as he takes the reins of this critical role. His strategic vision will play an essential part in addressing the operational needs and ensuring that the TTC can meet the expectations of Toronto’s growing population.
