Via is using technology to transform transportation around the world. From changing a single person’s daily commute to reducing humanity’s collective environmental footprint — we’ve got huge goals.
As a Strategy & Operations Principal - Launch , you will sit at the intersection of operational strategy and execution, launching a growing pipeline of new, complex services across markets. For each launch, you will serve as the leader of a transit network transformation; taking full ownership of the technology and operational transition, service performance, partner relationships, and a 30+ frontline team. You will be setting up Via's newest services in high-visibility markets that require building new operational systems from the ground up, not just managing existing ones. The decisions you make here will shape how the market runs for years.
This is a unique leadership and operating opportunity for anyone who is eager to lead and launch high-stakes, high-visibility, and high-impact new markets at Via. The role is excellent for a generalist looking for exposure in strategy, operations and product/technology.
This role requires a willingness to travel up to 50% of the time.
About the Role:
Launch & Service Performance
Own and manage launch of new Via services, from technology implementation to operational setup
Define and manage against KPIs spanning on-time performance, rider satisfaction, safety, and cost efficiency
Translate weekly and monthly performance data into decisions
People Leadership
Lead a 30+ team of field operators and drivers during the launch transition, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and culture setting
Build an operation where people feel accountable, supported, and proud of what they're delivering
Hire, develop and train frontline leaders who will run the long-term operations
Partner & Stakeholder Management
Own Via's relationship with the transit agency partner, a public entity with its own board, elected officials, and community accountability
Represent Via to community stakeholders, local officials, and riders
Operational Excellence
Drive continuous improvement across vehicle operations, maintenance protocols, and service delivery
Identify and execute cost and efficiency improvements that strengthen margin without compromising service
Product Development
Influence the product roadmap for Via's newest product lines
About You:
Minimum of 5+ years of experience in operations, consulting, strategy, tech or a field with meaningful client accountability and a demonstrated ability to lead big projects and develop teams
Ownership mentality: You get things done. You plan ahead, manage risks and design processes that prevent things from going wrong and, if they still do, you find what’s going wrong, own it, and fix it
Leadership instinct and experience: You know how to motivate and inspire individuals, from drivers all the way to a transit agency’s CEO
Effective at managing multiple tasks simultaneously: You can delegate, prioritize, and take responsibility.
Attention to detail and operational judgment: No detail is too small, and nothing gets passed you. You're equally comfortable in a spreadsheet as in the field
Partner and stakeholder sophistication: You know how to manage relationships that are complex, high-stakes, and not fully in your control
Mission alignment that goes beyond the talking points: You embrace that Via's partners are public agencies serving communities that often don't have other options
Flexible and adaptable: You love the challenge of adapting to change rapidly and making things work on the fly
Compensation and Benefits:
Final salary will be determined by the candidate’s experience, knowledge, and skills. Salary reflected does not include equity or variable pay, where applicable
Salary Range: $120,000-$160,000
We are proud to offer a generous and comprehensive benefits package, including free medical plans, 401K matching, catered lunch on Wednesdays, and many other perks.
There has never been a more exciting time to be on the cutting edge of public mobility. Ready to join the ride?
Via is an equal opportunity employer.