Mike Griffus is the CEO of Pierce Transit, where he oversees an agency of 960 employees with a $154 million budget. Pierce Transit provides rides on buses, paratransit vehicles and vanpools across 292 square miles throughout Tacoma and Pierce County. The agency also contracts with Sound Transit to operate ST Express bus service between Pierce and King counties.
Mike was named Pierce Transit CEO in August 2021. He accepted the position after serving as the agency’s Chief Operating Officer since 2016, where he directly managed daily operations and about 80 percent of the agency’s employees, including its 500 bus drivers. Mike’s transportation career spans more than 30 years, including serving as CEO of Keolis America, and President/COO of Veolia Transportation, both large national public transportation providers. He also served as Senior Vice President of Laidlaw, the nation’s largest school bus transportation provider. Prior to entering transportation, Mike proudly served in the United States Marine Corp. Infantry from 1974 to 1980 in both active and reserve status.
In his spare time Mike likes to enjoy the beauty of the Northwest outdoors with hiking, biking and kayaking. He is also an avid reader.
* (Note to person conducting introductions: Pierce Transit is not part of Pierce County government; therefore, the agency’s name is Pierce Transit, not Pierce County Transit – thank you!)