AECOM appoints Kirsten Watson as VP Government Relations

AECOM has appointed Kirsten Watson as Vice President of Government Relations and transit market sector Leader in Canada.

"She brings a wealth of experience, most recently as Deputy Chief Executive officer of the Toronto Transit Commission, the third-largest transit agency in NA," commented AECOM.

Bruce McCuaig, Senior Vice President of AECOM's Canadian transportation business, said: “With her strong background in operations and service delivery across all modes of transit and firsthand knowledge of major transit expansions and capital programs, Kirsten is the ideal candidate for this role. We’re very pleased to bring her onboard as a key member of our leadership team and are thrilled by the immense and multifaceted expertise she will bring to our clients throughout Canada.”

A key member of leadership teams

In her nearly 19 years at the TTC, Kirsten has held numerous leadership roles in subway and bus operations, customer experience, human resources, and employee relations. She was a key member of the leadership team responsible for the installation of Automatic Train Control on Line 1, the implementation of the King Street streetcar right of way, and planning operations for the significant expansion of subway and light rail transit lines across the transit network.

“I’ve always been very passionate about delivering safe, reliable, and seamless journeys for transit riders. I’m really looking forward to bringing my knowledge and experience and applying it on a national and global scale," said Kirsten.

“AECOM's Sustainable Legacies strategy and commitment to creating livable communities where all can prosper aligns perfectly with my personal values and long-term career goals, and I am thrilled to hit the ground running to bring value to the partners and public we serve.”

Working to increase AECOM's profile in Canada

In addition to her transit responsibilities, Kirsten will work across all business lines to increase AECOM’s profile in Canada with its government partners and clients. She will also lead growth initiatives with transit agencies and service providers while supporting AECOM's growth agenda in the global transit market.

Previously, Kirsten worked as a labour and employment lawyer with a Toronto law firm and led dispute resolution activities at the Ontario Ministry of Labour. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Windsor. She is a long-term member of the Women’s Transportation Seminar, Greater Toronto Areas chapter, where she is currently serving as vice president and Northeast region council representative.