JAIRO NARANJO
Chicago
Summary
Results-oriented leader with expertise in large-scale bus operations and service reliability. Skilled in budget management and strategic planning, driving workforce development and performance improvements. Experienced in emergency response and incident management, promoting continuous improvement across teams.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Vice President, Bus Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
09.2019 - Current
- Lead the planning, direction, and administration of CTA’s Bus Operations Division, including all garage operations, service management, and supervisory functions supporting nearly 1 million weekday rides.
- Direct operational leadership for 5,000+ employees, including 4 General Managers, 11 Senior Managers, 42 Transportation Managers, and 4,500+ operators.
- Oversee an annual operating budget exceeding $350 million, supporting 129 bus routes and 11,493 stops.
- Developed and implemented performance metrics and accountability systems to align operational goals with agency priorities.
- Provide executive oversight of manpower planning, quarterly union work picks, training, safety, and service delivery.
- Mentored and evaluated management teams, ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Led strategic initiatives to enhance service reliability and customer satisfaction while streamlining operational efficiency.
- Coordinate with internal departments and external agencies during major events, emergencies, and severe weather operations.
Acting Director, Control Center Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
05.2019 - 09.2019
- Directed real-time service management for bus and rail operations, ensuring rapid response to delays, emergencies, and safety incidents.
- Oversaw daily Control Center activities and staffing, ensuring effective performance during severe weather events.
- Implemented technological enhancements and tracking systems, improving communication and expediting service restoration.
- Coordinated emergency service planning across CTA departments and agencies, enhancing preparedness and response effectiveness.
General Manager, Bus Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
01.2018 - 05.2019
- Managed a bus garage with 600+ employees and a $75 million operating budget.
- Directed transportation, training, labor affairs, and administrative functions to support operational efficiency.
- Ensured compliance with CTA policies, safety standards, and performance goals to maintain service quality.
- Oversaw training programs and refresher courses to enhance operational readiness.
- Conducted facility inspections and approved personnel actions.
Senior Manager, Bus Operations / Bus Service Management / Training & Instruction
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
12.2013 - 01.2018
- Managed on-street service delivery, emergency shuttles, reroutes, parades, and major city events.
- Directed supervisory staff to achieve compliance with operational goals and procedures.
- Implemented technological enhancements and tracking tools to reduce absenteeism and improve accountability.
- Investigated rule violations and implemented corrective actions to uphold standards.
- Represented CTA at community meetings and collaborated with city agency task forces.
Transportation Manager I, Bus Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
08.2012 - 12.2013
- Coordinated daily garage operations to ensure compliance with rules, procedures, and service standards.
- Responded to service interruptions and restored operations promptly.
- Proposed service improvements and tracked budget compliance to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Reduced absenteeism and violations through labor-management engagement.
- Guided employees in succession planning and performance development to strengthen team capabilities.
Bus Controller, Control Center Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
01.2011 - 12.2012
- Coordinated real‑time bus service operations to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient service delivery across the system. Monitored route performance, responded to service disruptions, and issued directives to operators and field supervisors during delays, emergencies, and severe weather. Communicated service impacts to internal departments and supported incident management, service restoration, and customer notification efforts. Ensured adherence to operating procedures while maintaining continuous situational awareness in a fast‑paced, high‑stakes environment.
- Managed financial reporting and budget preparation for transit operations.
- Oversaw accounting processes and ensured compliance with regulations.
- Developed financial strategies to support transportation initiatives and projects.
Bus Service Supervisor
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
01.2009 - 12.2011
- Oversaw on‑street bus service to ensure safe, reliable, and on‑time performance across assigned routes. Responded to service interruptions, accidents, and delays by implementing immediate corrective actions and coordinating with operators, dispatch, and emergency agencies. Monitored operating employees for compliance with rules, procedures, and customer service standards. Documented incidents, investigated rule violations, and recommended appropriate corrective measures. Supported service restoration during major events, reroutes, rail emergencies, and severe weather while maintaining continuous communication with the Control Center and field personnel.
- Supervised daily operations of transit services and staff performance.
- Managed scheduling and coordination of service routes and personnel assignments.
- Conducted training sessions for new employees on safety protocols and procedures.
Bus Operator
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
01.1999 - 12.2009
- Operated buses safely and efficiently along assigned routes while providing courteous, professional service to passengers. Adhered to all operating procedures, traffic laws, and safety regulations. Maintained on‑time performance, responded to service disruptions, and communicated effectively with Control Center and supervisory staff. Assisted passengers with boarding, fare issues, and accessibility needs. Conducted pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections to ensure vehicle readiness and reported mechanical or safety concerns promptly.
- Operated buses safely across designated routes in Chicago neighborhoods.
- Ensured compliance with traffic regulations and safety protocols during operations.
- Assisted passengers with boarding, disembarking, and luggage handling when necessary.
Education
Leadership APTA Alum
Skills
- Service delivery management
- Large-Scale Operations Oversight
- Budget & Resource Management
- Budget management
- Workforce planning
- Incident management
- Emergency and Incident Response
- Performance metrics
- Change management
- Process Improvement & Service Optimization
- Strategic alignment
- Succession planning
- Labor relations management
- Leadership development
Certification
FEMA – Center for Domestic Preparedness, ICS 100, ICS 200, ICS 300, ICS 400, ICS 700, ICS 800
Personal Information
Title: Vice President of Bus Operations | Public Transit Executive
Timeline
Vice President, Bus Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
09.2019 - Current
Acting Director, Control Center Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
05.2019 - 09.2019
General Manager, Bus Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
01.2018 - 05.2019
Senior Manager, Bus Operations / Bus Service Management / Training & Instruction
Chicago Transit Authority
12.2013 - 01.2018
Transportation Manager I, Bus Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
08.2012 - 12.2013
Bus Controller, Control Center Operations
Chicago Transit Authority
01.2011 - 12.2012
Bus Service Supervisor
Chicago Transit Authority
01.2009 - 12.2011
Bus Operator
Chicago Transit Authority
01.1999 - 12.2009
Leadership APTA Alum