GRTC names Adams its new CEO

Following a national search, the Greater Richmond Transit Company’s Board of Directors found its new CEO within the organization’s own ranks.

The board chose 24-year GRTC employee Sheryl Adams – who had been its acting CEO – for the position following a four-month search.

At GRTC, Adams has led a number of departments, including operations, safety, and training.

“We trust Sheryl can continue to lead our transit agency to new heights and are even more excited to be placing our first African American woman in the leadership seat for our agency,” said GRTC Board Chair Tyrone Nelson, who also is Henrico’s Varina District supervisor. “We believe Sheryl has cultivated her relationships with the workforce here at GRTC over the years that will continue to foster a family-like environment with our union and administration staff to keep the agency moving forward.”

The board decided during a closed session Jan. 17 to remove the “interim” designation from Adams’ title. It will work with her to finalize a contract in the coming weeks.

“I am grateful that the board has continued to place its trust in me to lead this organization,” Adams said. “I have great pride in GRTC as we continue to provide clean, safe, and reliable transportation options.”

GRTC Chief of Development Adrienne Torres will be promoted to chief of staff and assist Adams.

Torres climbed through the organization’s ranks, beginning at GRTC in 2014, and most recently oversaw the department of planning and scheduling, marketing and communication, information systems for GRTC and RideFinders, its ridesharing arm.

“Public transit is at a pivotal moment as we have historic investments from the federal, state and local level and embark on expanding service across the region I call home,” Torres said. “I could not be more excited to help build a regional system that further connects everyone.”