The Central Puget Sound Regional Transit board has chosen Julie Timm as the new chief executive officer of Sound Transit, voting 17-0, according to a release.
Timm’s contract will last for three years and three months, running from Sept. 26, 2022, to Dec. 31, 2025. There is also a one-year renewal option after the initial contract expires.
Timm will receive an annual base salary of $375,000 with a minimum 3.5% yearly increase. The increases will be based on a successful performance rating.
Timm, the former CEO of the Greater Richmond Transit Company in Richmond Virginia, was chosen after a four-month search and selection process that included nearly 50 candidates and three finalists chosen for the final interview proceedings.
While she was CEO of the regional bus system in Richmond, there were 400 employees under her direction.
Not only has she served in Richmond, she took on various transit roles in other cities located in Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia.
Sound Transit has said that Timm is a “highly collaborative leader who forges strong relationships with community groups and partners, and for building an agency culture focused on dedication to continue to public service and equity.”
“Julie Timm’s deep experience, leadership skills and passion for public transportation will make her a great leader for Sound Transit as we work to deliver the largest transit expansion program in the nation and dramatically expand our operations in the years ahead,” Sound Transit board chair and University Place mayor Kent Keel had said during the nomination process.”
Timm said, “I am thrilled and humbled to be considered for the opportunity to support the Sound Transit Board and staff in delivering investments that are truly transformative and historic in their scale and impact. Public transportation is about serving people and improving lives, and I am eager to work alongside the region’s communities to continue making the region’s vision for its future into reality.”
While Timm has been approved to be the new CEO, the board can terminate her employment with or without cause. If her contract is terminated without cause during the three-year period or her extension is not approved, Timm will receive a severance package equivalent to a year’s base salary and retirement benefits.
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