Application Guide

How to Apply for Account Director, Western US

at Via Transporation

🏢 About Via Transporation

Via is revolutionizing public transportation by offering a cloud-based platform that enables cities and transit agencies to deploy dynamic, on-demand mobility solutions. Unlike traditional transit operators, Via combines cutting-edge software with operational expertise to create efficient, affordable, and sustainable networks. Working here means joining a mission-driven team that directly impacts urban mobility and environmental sustainability.

About This Role

As the Account Director for the Western US, you will own and grow strategic partnerships with major cities and transit agencies, acting as their primary executive liaison. This role is pivotal in driving revenue through complex contract renewals, service expansions, and new product adoption, while navigating politically sensitive environments. Your success directly influences Via's market presence and the modernization of public transit systems.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a virtual check-in with a city's transit director to discuss service metrics and upcoming contract milestones. Mid-morning, you analyze ridership data to prepare a proposal for expanding Via's services to a new neighborhood, then present it to the city's transportation committee. After lunch, you collaborate with Via's product team to advocate for a partner's feature request, and end the day by preparing a negotiation strategy for a high-stakes contract renewal.

🎯 Who Via Transporation Is Looking For

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📝 Tips for Applying to Via Transporation

1

1. Quantify your impact: In your resume, highlight specific revenue growth, contract value increases, or partnership expansions you've led (e.g., 'Grew a $5M portfolio to $12M over 3 years').

2

2. Show political savvy: Describe a situation where you navigated complex stakeholder dynamics (e.g., multiple city departments, unions) to close a deal.

3

3. Emphasize data storytelling: Provide an example of using data (ridership trends, cost savings) to persuade a skeptical executive or agency.

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4. Tailor for remote work: Mention your experience working independently in a distributed team, including how you maintain client relationships without in-person meetings.

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5. Research Via's platform: Reference specific Via products (e.g., ViaVan, ViaPulse) and how they address common transit pain points like first/last-mile connectivity.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

- Your ability to own and grow complex accounts in the public sector, with specific examples of revenue growth and contract renewals. - How you use data to influence senior stakeholders and drive strategic decisions. - Your experience navigating politically sensitive environments and building trust with government leaders. - Your alignment with Via's mission to create efficient, sustainable transit systems.

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • 1. Review Via's case studies and press releases for partnerships in Western US cities (e.g., Los Angeles, Denver, Seattle) to understand their impact and challenges. 2. Study Via's product suite, especially ViaPulse (data analytics) and ViaVan (shared rides), and how they differentiate from competitors like Uber Transit or Moovit. 3. Understand the current state of public transit funding and policy in the Western US, including federal grants and state-level initiatives (e.g., California's SB 375). 4. Look at Via's leadership team (CEO, CRO) and their backgrounds to understand company culture and priorities.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 1. 'Walk me through how you would approach renewing a contract with a city that is unhappy with service performance.'
2 2. 'Describe a time you used data to convince a client to adopt a new product or service.'
3 3. 'How do you manage relationships with multiple stakeholders (e.g., mayor, transit director, city council) who have conflicting priorities?'
4 4. 'Tell me about a complex, multi-year deal you closed. What was your strategy and what were the key obstacles?'
5 5. 'How would you identify and pursue a service expansion opportunity within an existing partner account?'
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • 1. Focusing solely on private sector experience without addressing how you've navigated government procurement cycles and public sector decision-making. 2. Being vague about data skills—avoid saying 'data-driven' without concrete examples of using data to change a client's mind. 3. Underestimating the political complexity: don't suggest that deals are purely transactional; emphasize relationship-building and stakeholder management.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Via Transporation!