November 26, 2024
“[Leslie] is an empathetic leader who cares greatly not only for the well-being of her staff but also for all who use SEPTA. We expect the changes she has made to continue to have an impact,” said DVRPC Executive Director Ariella Maron.
Leslie Richards, who has led SEPTA through one of the most challenging periods in the transit agency’s history, announced that she will step down as General Manager and CEO effective on November 29.
During her five-year tenure, Richards has stewarded SEPTA’s continuing recovery from the COVID pandemic and its dramatic impact on the agency’s ridership and finances, while also advancing several initiatives, including introducing the SEPTA Key Advantage system, trolley modernization, a regional rail master plan, new wayfinding and more. She also created the Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) program, which encourages equitable and sustainable community development around SEPTA services, allowing more people to live and work near high-quality transit.
As part of her role at SEPTA, Richards serves on the DVRPC Board and is a former Board Chair. Throughout her service, she has supported a collaborative regional approach to enhancing communities. “During her time with SEPTA, Leslie built a great team and advanced several important initiatives during an incredibly challenging time,” said DVRPC Executive Director Ariella Maron. “She is an empathetic leader who cares greatly not only for the well-being of her staff but also for all who use SEPTA. We expect the changes she has made to continue to have an impact.”
SEPTA intends to conduct a nationwide search for Richards’ successor. Chief Operating Officer Scott Sauer will serve as Interim General Manager until a permanent successor is chosen.