RTD launches national search for new CEO
Executive search firm recruiting leadership candidates; applications accepted through Nov. 20
DENVER (Sept. 23, 2026) –– The Regional Transportation District(RTD)has launched a national search for its next Chief Executive Officer and has partnered with executive search firm Krauthamer & Associates to lead the recruitment. Applications are being accepted through Nov. 20, and finalist candidates will be announced publiclyby mid- December.
“RTD seeks a CEO who can continue strengthening the agency's fiscal foundation, drive long‑range funding solutions, and guide RTD through budget challenges while advancing innovation, equity, transit service delivery and the customer experience," said RTD Board Chair Patrick O’Keefe.
Candidates for the CEO position must demonstrate a minimum of 10 years of management experience with at least five years of executive leadership experience working at a comparable public or private organization of significant complexity and size, along with strong financial acumen. The desired candidate also would have proven success in leading an organization with union and non-represented employees and a track record of developing and maintaining strong relationships with customers, elected officials, and stakeholders.
“RTD is entering an important new chapter, and this CEO search is an opportunity to bring in a leader who will help shape the future of transit and mobility for our entire region,” said Performance Committee Chair and Board Second Vice Chair Chris Gutschenritter. “We are committed to a transparent and inclusive process that welcomes public and stakeholder input and reflects the diverse communities we serve. Our next CEO must be someone who can build on RTD’s momentum, strengthen partnerships and drive innovative solutions that make transit more reliable, sustainable and connected for everyone.”
The Search Committee for the agency’s next CEO will be composed of the Board’s existing Executive Committee – Chair Patrick O’Keefe, First Vice Chair Ian Harwick, Second Vice Chair Chris Gutschenritter, Secretary Chris Nicholson, and Treasurer Karen Benker. The Board has requested the Search Committee identify at least three candidate finalists for the Board’s consideration.
The finalist candidates for CEO are expected to be determined by a Board vote on Dec. 4, which will commence a 14-daypublic feedback window. Interviews with candidate finalists and public engagement sessions will be conducted between Dec.4 and Dec. 18. On Dec. 18,the RTD Board of Directors will vote on the CEO leadership decision. The hiring process will include a 14‑day public engagement period and incorporate participation from newly elected Board Directors who will be voted into office on Nov.3, 2026, prior to their being sworn into office on Jan. 5, 2027.
Current RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson’s contract with the agency ends May 8, 2027.
Details about the search are available on the RTD Chief Executive Officer Search webpage.