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Zūm is transforming student mobility through its Connected Mobility Experience (CMX) platform, serving over 6,500 schools in the $50 billion student transportation market. The company is backed by leading investors including Sequoia Capital, GIC, TPG, and Softbank, and has been recognized by Fast Company, CNBC, and the World Economic Forum for innovation.
You will lead transportation operations at the Johnston, RI location, managing the complete operational lifecycle from contract startup through daily execution and continuous improvement. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring you to build high-performing teams, maintain P&L accountability, and establish best-in-class operations that exceed customer expectations.
Key responsibilities include executing site startups for newly awarded contracts (team hiring, facility setup, IT implementation), developing training and hiring programs that meet state, federal, and district guidelines, and managing customer and stakeholder relationships through proactive communication. You will oversee performance management and safety compliance, utilizing Zūm's IT infrastructure to monitor KPIs, spearhead behavioral safety culture, and ensure DOT and regulatory compliance. You'll collaborate with HR, recruiting, and safety teams on hiring strategy, develop and mentor employees for leadership roles, partner with maintenance on fleet readiness, oversee daily operations (scheduling, staffing, route awards, trip execution), manage union relationships per collective bargaining agreements, and coordinate accident investigations and workers' compensation cases.
Additionally, you will plan and execute school bus yard electrification projects on time and within budget, managing project schedules, coordinating with contractors and utilities, monitoring progress, and ensuring safety and environmental compliance throughout.
You are a decisive leader who thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments, balancing operational urgency with safety discipline. You build trust with customers, employees, and stakeholders through consistent follow-through, invest in people's growth, and are equally comfortable reviewing financials, walking the yard with drivers, and presenting to school district administrators.
REQUIREMENTS:
Basic Qualifications:
- Demonstrated experience managing full P&L accountability with operational oversight and KPI responsibility
- 5+ years managing day-to-day operations in complex, time-sensitive environments (transportation, field services, logistics, hospitality, or similar)
- Experience with scheduling, staffing, planning, and operational execution
- 5+ years maintaining client-facing relationships and managing customer accounts in operational environments, with demonstrated ability to deliver service to external clients and internal stakeholders
- Experience managing salaried leaders and/or coordinating across multiple departments
- Track record of career progression supported by relevant certifications or continuing education, with demonstrated success developing direct reports and building high-performing teams
- Comprehensive understanding of and demonstrated experience with safety practices, protocols, processes, compliance requirements, and regulatory standards
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience managing in a unionized (CBA) environment
- Prior leadership in transportation startup or new district launch, including sourcing facilities, implementing IT systems, building teams, and intaking fleet vehicles
- Demonstrated experience managing through periods of rapid organizational growth or major management/structural changes
- Proficiency with Microsoft or G Suite applications (Sheets, Docs, Slides)
