Manager Planning (Strategic Partnerships)

Metropolitan Transportation Authority; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 101,754 - 127,192; Full time

Job summary

Metropolitan Transportation Authority is seeking a Manager of Planning (Commercial Strategy & Partnerships) to drive strategic initiatives for broadband, wireless connectivity, and innovative partnerships across the MTA network.

You will coordinate with engineering, procurement, finance, and external partners to develop business cases, financial analyses, and negotiation materials, reporting to the Vice President Planning & Strategic Partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Transportation, Planning, Public Policy, or related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.
• Must have focus and the ability to deliver on results, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.
• Must be a proven leader as a change agent and creative/innovative thinker to align business goals with solutions to drive process improvements.
• Must possess excellent team-building, listening, problem-solving, and prioritization skills.
• Proficient computer skills (Windows environment, Microsoft Office, PeopleSoft, Oracle)

Responsibilities

• Lead the commercial strategy and day-to-day management of strategic partnerships supporting the MTA's expansion of wireless connectivity throughout the transit system.
• Manage commercial relationships with broadband providers, private partners, consultants, and other external stakeholders to advance strategic initiatives and capital investments.
• Support the negotiation, implementation, and ongoing management of complex partnership agreements, including contract amendments, business terms, and commercial performance.
• Develop business cases, financial analyses, and commercial strategies to evaluate new partnership opportunities, funding approaches, and innovative delivery models.
• Identify and advance public-private partnership (P3) opportunities that leverage private investment to improve infrastructure, customer experience, and operational performance.
• Coordinate cross-functional initiatives involving engineering, legal, procurement, finance, operations, and delivery to advance commercial and strategic objectives.
• Monitor partnership performance, contractual obligations, and key milestones, identifying risks and recommending mitigation strategies.
• Prepare executive briefings, presentations, negotiation materials, and recommendations for senior leadership.
• Conduct market research and engage industry partners to identify emerging technologies, commercial trends, and opportunities for innovation.
• Perform other strategic planning, partnership development, and special project responsibilities as assigned.

Skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Transportation, Planning, Public Policy, or related field

Minimum 5 years of related experience

Job description

Description

JOB TITLE: Manager, Planning (Commercial Strategy & Partnerships)

Agency

Construction & Development

Dept/Div

Planning\\Strategic Partnerships

Reports To

Vice President Planning & Strategic Partnerships

Work Location

2 Broadway

Hours Of Work

8:30 AM to 5:00 PM or as required (7.5 HR/ DAY)

Job Family

DAB

Grade

005

Salary Range

$101,754 to $127,192

Deadline

Open Until Filled

May need to work outside of normal work hours (i.e., evenings and weekends)

Travel may be required to other MTA locations or other external sites.

MTA Construction & Development reserves the right to remove this posting before the application deadline.

Agency Mission

MTA Construction & Development (C&D) is responsible for the planning, development, and execution of all capital construction projects across the MTA region. Through centralized oversight and management of the MTA's $64 billion Capital Program, C&D ensures the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure projects that support the region's vast transportation network. As part of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the largest transportation network in North America, C&D plays a key role in modernizing and expanding services that support 15.3 million residents across New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. C&D is committed to delivering safe, innovative, and cost-effective capital projects that enhance the customer experience and strengthen the reliability and resilience of the MTA system.

Telework

This position is eligible for telework, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Job Summary

The Planning & Strategic Partnerships team develops and advances the MTA's strategy for next-generation digital infrastructure, technology partnerships, and innovative capital investments. Working across engineering, operations, delivery, procurement, and external partners, the team leads strategic planning for telecommunications, operational systems, and customer-facing technologies; manages commercial partnerships and public-private partnership opportunities to expand broadband and wireless connectivity; develops and implements emerging technology pilots to improve the customer experience and inform future capital investments; and provides strategic analysis, executive communications, and cross-functional leadership on complex initiatives that shape the future of the transit system.

The Manager, Commercial Strategy & Partnerships leads strategic initiatives that advance innovative partnership models and commercial approaches to modernize MTA infrastructure. The role is responsible for evaluating public-private partnership opportunities, developing business cases and financial analyses, supporting commercial negotiations, and managing strategic relationships with broadband providers, technology companies, and other external partners. The Manager also leads the day-to-day management of broadband and wireless connectivity initiatives, coordinating internal stakeholders, consultants, legal counsel, and private-sector partners to advance negotiations, resolve issues, and deliver key project milestones.

Reporting to the Vice President, Planning & Strategic Partnerships, this position sits at the intersection of commercial strategy, capital planning, technology, and partnership development. The role requires the ability to work across delivery teams, finance, legal, procurement, consultants, and private-sector partners to advance complex, cross-functional initiatives. Strong project management, analytical, financial, communication, and stakeholder management skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead the commercial strategy and day-to-day management of strategic partnerships supporting the MTA's expansion of wireless connectivity throughout the transit system.


• Manage commercial relationships with broadband providers, private partners, consultants, and other external stakeholders to advance strategic initiatives and capital investments.


• Support the negotiation, implementation, and ongoing management of complex partnership agreements, including contract amendments, business terms, and commercial performance.


• Develop business cases, financial analyses, and commercial strategies to evaluate new partnership opportunities, funding approaches, and innovative delivery models.


• Identify and advance public-private partnership (P3) opportunities that leverage private investment to improve infrastructure, customer experience, and operational performance.


• Coordinate cross-functional initiatives involving engineering, legal, procurement, finance, operations, and delivery to advance commercial and strategic objectives.


• Monitor partnership performance, contractual obligations, and key milestones, identifying risks and recommending mitigation strategies.


• Prepare executive briefings, presentations, negotiation materials, and recommendations for senior leadership.


• Conduct market research and engage industry partners to identify emerging technologies, commercial trends, and opportunities for innovation.


• Perform other strategic planning, partnership development, and special project responsibilities as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Transportation, Planning, Public Policy, or a related field.


• Must have a minimum of five (5) years of related experience.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.


• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.


• Must have focus and the ability to deliver on results, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.


• Must be a proven leader as a change agent and creative/innovative thinker to align business goals with solutions to drive process improvements.


• Must possess excellent team-building, listening, problem-solving, and prioritization skills.


• Proficient computer skills (i.e., Windows environment, Microsoft Office, PeopleSoft, Oracle, etc.) and strong business administrative skills (i.e., presentations, report and letter writing, time management, etc.).

Comprehensive Benefits & Total Rewards Package

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax‑advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.


• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high‑quality individual, family, and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.


• Secure Your Future – Build long‑term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid Time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.


• Holistic Support Services – Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.


• Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in‑house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.


• Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.


• Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

Additional Information

Final salary is determined by experience, skill set, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.

To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the \"Commission\").

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are equal opportunity employers, including those with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.