Announcement

Jawnt Welcomes Transit Leader Leslie Richards as Executive Advisor

We're proud to welcome Leslie Richards, former SEPTA GM and Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation, as Jawnt's new Executive Advisor.

Jawnt Team
May 7, 2025

At Jawnt, we’re making it easier for companies to offer commuter benefits that employees actually use—and that means working alongside the best minds in transit. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Leslie Richards as an Executive Advisor.

Leslie has spent her career shaping the future of public transportation. She’s led SEPTA as General Manager, served as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Transportation, and helped drive regional planning as a Montgomery County Commissioner. Along the way, she’s consistently been a champion for forward-thinking transit solutions—including the SEPTA Key Advantage program, which allows employers to offer free or discounted transit passes to their employees.

Her leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including Urbanist Changemaker of the Year and International Woman of the Year in transportation.

Scaling our impact

Leslie knows firsthand how important it is to make commuting easier, more affordable, and more sustainable. Her experience spans from state-wide infrastructure projects to local transit accessibility, always with an eye on how transportation can better serve the people who rely on it.

“I’ve spent my career working to expand and improve public transit, and I’m excited to bring that experience to Jawnt,” said Leslie of her new role. “Jawnt is making it easier than ever for employees to access sustainable transportation options, and I look forward to helping scale that impact.”

Jawnt CEO Jeff Stade is equally excited for the collaboration: “Leslie’s impact on transit is undeniable. She’s shaped how millions of people move through cities, and having her as an advisor is a huge win for Jawnt and the future of commuter benefits.”

What’s next?

Leslie will be working closely with the Jawnt team to help shape the future of commuter benefits: supporting our work both locally and at a national level as we engage with cities and transit agencies to expand their eligibility and fare concessions programs. Her insights will help us continue to bridge the gap between employers, employees, and sustainable transportation.

We’re honored to have Leslie Richards on board and can’t wait to see what we build together. Welcome, Leslie!

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