Rachel Benavidez
Vice President of Communications and Strategy | San Antonio, Texas, United States
Professional Overview
Rachel Benavidez is an accomplished communications and strategy leader with over a decade of experience driving impactful initiatives in the public transportation industry. As the Vice President of Communications and Strategy at VIA Metropolitan Transit, she is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that elevate the organization's brand, engage key stakeholders, and support its strategic objectives.
Experience Summary
Current Role
Rachel currently serves as the Vice President of Communications and Strategy at VIA Metropolitan Transit, a position she has held since September 2022. In this role, she oversees the organization's internal and external communication efforts, collaborates with cross-functional teams to align communication priorities with strategic initiatives, and provides leadership in developing innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Rachel held various communication and strategy roles within the public transportation industry, including positions at CTA in Chicago and Valley Metro in Phoenix. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong ability to create and implement effective communication campaigns, build collaborative relationships with stakeholders, and drive organizational transformation through strategic planning and execution.
Academic Background
Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she graduated with honors. She has also completed several professional development programs and certifications in the fields of strategic communication, crisis management, and public sector leadership.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic communication and stakeholder engagement
- Public transportation industry knowledge
- Organizational transformation and change management
- Data-driven decision-making and performance management
- Collaborative leadership and team building
Professional Impact
During her tenure at VIA Metropolitan Transit, Rachel has spearheaded several high-profile initiatives that have enhanced the organization's visibility and engagement with the local community. She has led the development of a comprehensive rebranding campaign, which has resulted in increased ridership and improved public perception of the agency. Additionally, Rachel has played a pivotal role in the implementation of a new customer service platform, leveraging data analytics to identify and address pain points for riders.
Conclusion
With her exceptional communication skills, strategic mindset, and deep understanding of the public transportation industry, Rachel Benavidez is poised to continue driving meaningful change and making a significant impact in her role as Vice President of Communications and Strategy at VIA Metropolitan Transit.
