Joseph J. Lhota joined New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) as its executive director on Nov. 14.

“The MTA is the engine that drives our economy and makes our way of life possible here in New York, and we have a responsibility to operate our service as efficiently and effectively as possible,” said Lhota.

He noted the agency’s fiscal and operating challenges, including funding for vital capital programs and continuing service improvements in tough economic times. “My focus in the next couple of months,” he continued, “is understanding this organization from top-to-bottom, and listening to our employees, customers, and community leaders as we work together to shape an agenda and improve this vital service for all New Yorkers.”

Most recently, Lhota was executive vice president, administration, for The Madison Square Garden Company. He was deputy mayor for operations under New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, overseeing day-to-day management of the city and supervising city agencies, and has served on the MTA board.