Director of ITS Operations & Business Development

Position Summary The Director of ITS Operations & Business Development provides executive leadership for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) operations, maintenance programs, strategic growth initiatives, and client relationships. This role is responsible for overseeing large-scale transportation technology programs while driving business development efforts, pursuing new opportunities, expanding existing contracts, and establishing long-term partnerships with public and private sector clients. The Director serves as the primary liaison between company leadership, transportation agencies, contractors, and strategic partners to ensure operational excellence, contract compliance, revenue growth, and successful delivery of ITS and transportation technology services. Key Responsibilities Executive Leadership & Operations Provide strategic leadership for all ITS operations, maintenance activities, and transportation technology programs. Direct multiple managers, supervisors, engineers, and technical teams across various geographic regions. Establish operational objectives, performance metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives. Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, safety requirements, quality standards, and regulatory requirements. Oversee preventative maintenance, asset management, incident response, and system reliability programs. Develop long-term operational strategies that improve service delivery, efficiency, and client satisfaction. Lead organizational planning, workforce development, succession planning, and talent management initiatives. Foster a culture of safety, accountability, innovation, and operational excellence. Business Development & Growth Develop and execute business development strategies focused on ITS, traffic operations, tolling, transportation technology, smart mobility, and infrastructure maintenance services. Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities with state DOTs, municipalities, transit agencies, toll authorities, and private sector clients. Build and maintain relationships with executive leaders, transportation stakeholders, consultants, and industry partners. Lead capture efforts for RFPs, RFQs, IDIQ contracts, and transportation technology procurements. Participate in proposal development, pricing strategies, contract negotiations, and executive presentations. Develop strategic partnerships and teaming arrangements that strengthen market competitiveness. Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and transportation funding opportunities to identify future growth initiatives. Represent the organization at industry conferences, trade associations, and client engagement events. Financial & Contract Management Maintain accountability for operational budgets, profitability, and financial performance. Drive revenue growth through contract expansion, renewals, and new client acquisition. Monitor contract performance, key performance indicators, and service-level agreements. Develop annual business plans, forecasts, staffing models, and capital investment strategies. Ensure efficient utilization of personnel, assets, equipment, and resources. Review and approve major expenditures, subcontractor agreements, and procurement activities. Client & Stakeholder Engagement Serve as executive sponsor for major client accounts and strategic transportation programs. Establish trusted relationships with agency executives, program managers, and key decision-makers. Lead executive-level project reviews, performance meetings, and business strategy discussions. Resolve complex operational, technical, contractual, and customer-related issues. Collaborate with engineering teams, consultants, manufacturers, and technology providers on system enhancements and modernization initiatives. Strategic Planning & Innovation Drive adoption of emerging transportation technologies and smart mobility solutions. Support organizational expansion into new markets and service offerings. Develop strategies for Transportation Systems Management & Operations (TSMO), Connected Vehicle initiatives, Smart Cities programs, and advanced traffic management solutions. Evaluate investments in technology, automation, and operational improvements that enhance organizational capabilities and competitive position. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Transportation, Business Administration, Construction Management, or related discipline. 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in ITS, transportation operations, traffic management, infrastructure maintenance, or related industries. 5+ years of senior leadership experience managing large-scale transportation programs and multidisciplinary teams. Demonstrated success leading business development, capture management, and client relationship initiatives. Experience managing complex government contracts and transportation agency relationships. Strong financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and P&L experience. Proven ability to lead multiple concurrent projects and operational programs. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and executive presentation skills. Why Eland? Eland Engineering, a GAI Company, offers an exceptional place to do meaningful work, grow your career, and make a real impact in the field of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Here, you’ll join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team delivering smart, technology-driven solutions that improve mobility, safety, and connectivity in communities nationwide. From concept through implementation, you’ll help solve complex transportation challenges alongside professionals who value innovation, shared ideas, and collective success. At Eland, culture and growth go hand-in-hand. You’ll be supported by a team-driven environment rooted in integrity, respect, and continuous improvement, with opportunities for mentorship, skill development, and leadership. You’ll also benefit from comprehensive benefits, wellness programs, and employee discounts. As part of GAI, Eland offers the teamwork and client focus of a regional firm, supported by the stability, resources, and career-development opportunities of an established and growing firm. Benefits To Working at Eland Include: Competitive Pay & Recognition Market based, competitive compensation Performance driven recognition and development bonuses Comprehensive Health & Wellness Medical, dental, and vision plans Company-paid short-term and long-term disability Company-paid life insurance Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources Meaningful Work–Life Balance Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays An additional floating holiday—use it for what matters to you Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave Growth, Learning & Financial Security 401(k) with company match Tuition reimbursement Support and rewards for professional development and certifications #ELD