Staff Contact: Wanda Klayman, Interim Executive Director & CEO.
Dear IBTTA Members:
I am pleased to announce that the executive search process for our next IBTTA Executive Director/CEO has officially launched. This marks a significant and exciting step forward for IBTTA as we look ahead to our future leadership and continue advancing our mission and strategic priorities.
To lead this critical effort, we have once again engaged Korn Ferry, a nationally recognized executive search firm with deep expertise in recruiting transformational leaders. In partnership with the IBTTA Executive Search Committee, Korn Ferry will facilitate a thoughtful, inclusive, and rigorous process to identify the most qualified and visionary candidates for this important role.
The search officially commenced with a kick-off meeting on June 15, 2025, during which we:
- Reviewed the leadership profile and position expectations
- Outlined the proposed timeline and key milestones
Under the current schedule, we anticipate selecting and contracting with a new CEO by November, with onboarding to begin in December. Both the Search Committee and Korn Ferry are fully committed to meeting this timeline.
As of today, Korn Ferry will release the official position profile, which will also be available on the IBTTA website.
Tentative Timeline:
- July–August: Korn Ferry will conduct market research, advertising, and preliminary screening of candidates.
- September: A slate of candidates will be presented to the Search Committee for first-round virtual interviews.
- Early October: Finalist interviews will be conducted in person.
- November: The preferred candidate will be presented to the Board, with an executed contract targeted for this month.
- December: CEO onboarding is expected to begin.
Executive Search Committee Members:
We are pleased to share that the Search Committee has been fully appointed and consists of the following IBTTA leaders:
- Ferzan Ahmed, Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission – IBTTA Second Vice President
- Lucinda Broussard, SANDAG – IBTTA Board Member
- Joi Dean, Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority – IBTTA First Vice President, Chair, CEO Search Committee
- Bill Halkias, New Attica Tollway Concession Co. – IBTTA Immediate Past President
- Merryl Mandus, State Road and Tollway Authority – IBTTA Board Member
- Maria Moreno, SEOPAN – IBTTA International Vice President
- Tim Stewart, AtkinsRealis – Council of Platinum Sponsors, IBTTA Past President
- Emanuela Stocchi, AISCAT – IBTTA Past President
- Tim Sturick, Thousand Islands Bridge Authority – IBTTA Board Member
- James Hofmann, NTTA – IBTTA President, Advisor to the Search Committee
Each committee member has signed a confidentiality agreement affirming their commitment to strict confidentiality throughout the process. This agreement underscores the importance of protecting the reputation and privacy of all candidates and the integrity of the process.
We are committed to conducting a transparent, inclusive, and high-integrity search process aimed at selecting a leader who embodies IBTTA’s values and vision. We will continue to provide periodic updates and maintain open communication with our members throughout this transition.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement in this important endeavor. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Joi Dean
Joi Taylor Dean
Chief Executive Officer
Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority