Molly Poppe

Molly Poppe is the Chief Innovation Officer at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), a position she has held since June 2019.12 As the agency's first Chief Innovation Officer, Poppe is responsible for driving innovation and technological advancements across the organization.

Professional Background

Poppe has an extensive background in public service and government roles:

• Prior to joining CTA, she worked for over seven years in various positions for the City of Chicago under Mayor Rahm Emanuel's administration.1
• She served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Development, where she led Chicago's Mobility Task Force and created the "Roadmap for the Future of Transportation and Mobility in Chicago".1
• Other roles included Deputy Budget Director and Director of Public Affairs at the Office of Budget and Management for the City of Chicago.2

Responsibilities at CTA

As Chief Innovation Officer, Poppe's duties include:

• Managing the nation's first account-based fare system, Ventra, and the bus farebox system.1
• Leading the development and implementation of new technology and digital strategies focused on customer communication and engagement.1
• Partnering with third-party organizations to launch integrated digital products and services to reduce mobility friction for transit customers.1
• Working with agency departments to identify and achieve operational improvements and service efficiencies through technology investments, process improvements, and strategic policy changes.1

Recent Initiatives

In 2024, Poppe has been involved in several key initiatives:

• Launching the CTA's 'Innovation Studio' to partner with private sector entities and test solutions for improved system safety, asset management, and real-time information at bus stops.3
• Developing a four-pronged plan for rebuilding ridership, which includes growing off-peak ridership, expanding existing service, improving customer service, and increasing advertising.4

Education and Early Career

Poppe received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the George Washington University in Washington, D.C.1 She began her career working on President Barack Obama's 2012 presidential campaign.1