Interim Executive

Appointing an Interim Project Director for a Public Sector Ticketing Transformation

Date Posted:30 October 2025

Interim Project Director supports future-ready ticketing platform transformation for major transport authority

Interim Project Director for Ticketing System Transformation

The Brief

A major government transport authority embarked on a multiyear transformation of its public transport ticketing platform, replacing an old system with a modern, account-based solution. This strategic program aims to introduce enhanced payment options, better journey planning integration, and flexible, future-proofed architecture.

Future Leadership was engaged to appoint an experienced Interim Project Director to guide the program through a critical 12-month period. The focus was to maintain project momentum, mitigate complex delivery risks, and coordinate cross-agency dependencies.

9.19.1

Candidate net Promote Score

Future Leadership combines truly personalised relationships with innovative technology solutions to ensure an approachable and efficient process for all our Net Promoter Score across clients, successful candidates and unsuccessful candidates is well above industry standard.

10,000+10,000+

Candidates supported every year

We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.

50.5%50.5%

We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.

Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.

98%98%

Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002

Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!

The Process

Future Leadership conducted a highly targeted search, identifying an interim executive with:

  • Proven experience in large-scale transport or infrastructure programs

  • Technical literacy across ticketing systems and digital payment technology

  • Strong capability in risk mitigation, procurement strategy, and multi-stream program oversight

  • A collaborative and solutions-oriented leadership style

Our rapid placement approach ensured minimal downtime and immediate value.

Top 5 Capabilities

01.

Stakeholder Relations

Built trust and alignment across a large leadership cohort during a sensitive transformation.

02.

Strategy and Purpose

Enabled clarity around the Target Operating Model and its strategic implications.

03.

Commercial Acumen

Delivered measurable cost savings and improved contract management outcomes

04.

Communication and Influence

Fostered honest dialogue and shared understanding of priorities.

05.

Organisational Capability

Prepared the division for long-term reform through structured planning and leadership development.

The Outcome

The appointed Interim Project Director provided critical leadership at a pivotal stage of the project. Key contributions included:

  • Managing dependencies with cross-government banking and payment platforms

  • Coordinating integration across all transport modes, journey planning systems, and real-time data services

  • Navigating cost, scope, and vendor risks through modular procurement strategies and contingency planning

  • Supporting governance and assurance activities while stabilising legacy systems during the transition

Their presence ensured continuity of delivery, strengthened cross-functional coordination, and laid the groundwork for long-term success on one of the state’s most significant digital infrastructure initiatives.

Consultant

Martin Searle

Associate Partner, Interim Executive View Profile
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