TransLink President Leaves to Assume Top Transit Job in New York City

Board Chair Dale Parker announced today that TransLink President Tom Prendergast will leave the organization to take the helm of North America’s largest subway and bus system, New York City Transit Authority.

“The fact that Tom is being recruited to serve as President of the New York City Transit Authority is a testament to the great skills and experience he brought to TransLink during his tenure,” said Parker.  “We are sad to see him go, but wish him well as he returns to his roots in New York.”

Prendergast joined TransLink in July 2008 from the New York region, having previously served as Senior Vice President of New York’s subway system and as President of the Long Island Rail Road, the largest commuter railroad in the United States.

Chair Parker noted that Prendergast leaves a strong legacy at TransLink, having brought in industry-leading best practices.  He also commended Prendergast for his leadership role in securing a Funding Stabilization Plan for the organization amid extremely difficult economic conditions.

“Leaving TransLink is difficult because this is a great organization with great people and potential,” said Prendergast.  “I came here because Vancouver’s transportation system is already the envy of many global transportation experts and there is so much potential to build-out the system to foster livability and the economic and environmental sustainability of the region.  But at the end of the day, for me, being asked to run New York’s transit authority is like being asked to play in Yankee Stadium, you just don’t say no.”

Ian Jarvis, TransLink’s Chief Financial Officer, will assume the role of Interim President & CEO.

“The critical challenges facing TransLink today are financial in nature,” said Parker.  “Ian will work closely with the board to ensure no time is lost in ongoing efforts to foster organizational efficiencies and effectiveness, along with implementing the recently approved Funding Stabilization Plan.”

Jarvis participated in the creation of TransLink more than 10 years ago, having served previously as Chief Financial Officer for the Greater Vancouver Regional District.  He has also served as TransLink’s Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Finance and Corporate Services for Coast Mountain Bus Company.  He moved back to TransLink in February 2008 to assume his current role.