WMATA to reboot search for new CEO

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) board is suspending its search for a new chief executive officer in order to take more time to determine the qualities it needs in its next leader, agency officials announced Thursday.

"We have heard the call to broaden the discussion and will engage our stakeholders more actively in defining the qualities for a new general manager/CEO who can move [WMATA] forward, as we better serve our customers, our communities, and the region’s businesses," said WMATA Chairman Mort Downey in a press release.

At its April Governance Committee meeting, board members "will examine how best to restart the search process," he said.

The agency is seeking a new CEO who has transit experience and financial management skills, as well as the ability to turn around the agency, WMATA officials said.

Jack Requa has been serving as interim GM and CEO since Richard Sarles retired in January.