Chief Executive Officer
Jessica Paton
Jessica Paton joined the Metro team as CEO in 2026, bringing nearly 20 years’ of experience leading large-scale change across public transport, spanning both bus and rail operations. She brings a wealth of knowledge in delivering strategic transformation, operational readiness and workforce capability in complex operating environments from senior roles at Brisbane City Council and Queensland Rail.
Jess is a registered psychologist, a PROSCI-certified change practitioner and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). As CEO, Jessica is committed to supporting Metro’s people to deliver safe, reliable and high-quality services, and leading the organisation through the next phase of its modernisation journey.
Chief Operating Officer
Darren Turner
Darren joined the Metro team as COO in 2023, bringing a wealth of experience from senior executive roles in banking, finance, and member-based organisations. Before Metro, he served as Chief Operating Officer at RACT and General Manager at RACV. Darren is known for his leadership style that focuses on developing high-performing teams to deliver excellent outcomes for customers and stakeholders. At Metro, he oversees the Operations Division, ensuring seamless frontline services, the maintenance of our bus fleet, and service delivery across the Burnie, Launceston and Hobart networks.
General Manager People and Safety
Jacqui Allen
Joining Metro in 2023, Jacqui brings a rich background in state government and law, specialising in workplace relations and health and safety. As GM of People and Safety, Jacqui champions a supportive environment where safety and wellbeing are paramount. Her leadership focuses on recruitment, training, and wellbeing initiatives to enhance organisational culture. Jacqui is also a board member of the No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS), helping low-income Tasmanians access essential services. She holds credentials from the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
General Manager Corporate Services
Kellie Dean
Joining Metro in 2024, Kellie brings a wealth of experience from her diverse roles across legal and governance, including positions at the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service, the University of Tasmania, and Tasracing. Prior experience was in executive positions in the telecommunications sector. Kellie also currently serves on the boards of Southern Cross Care (Tas) and GenU. Known for her compassionate and inclusive leadership style, Kellie is Metro’s Company Secretary and oversees the Communications, Brand Marketing, Stakeholder Relations, Customer Experience, and Records Management teams, ensuring Metro’s community engagement and brand reputation success.
General Manager Finance
Jesse Penfold
Jesse joined Metro in 2018, bringing over two decades of audit and finance expertise from both the public and private sectors. His background includes senior roles in financial audit at private firms and the State Audit Office, as well as managing finance teams at ASX-listed companies, including the IOOF Group. Jesse is a CPA with a Postgraduate Certificate in Corporate Governance, and he champions a strategic and collaborative leadership style. As General Manager Finance, he oversees a team to manage Metro’s financial strategy and capital investments, ensuring a sustainable operating model and compliance with all legislative and risk management requirements.
General Manager Business Transformation
Damian Shirley
Joining the team in 2023, Damian leads Metro’s Business Transformation unit, driving projects that enhance safety, customer experience, and operational efficiency through innovation and technology. With more than 20 years’ experience in government and transport, including senior roles with Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, Damian brings extensive expertise in digital transformation, safety reform, and strategic program delivery. He is passionate about achieving high-quality outcomes and empowering teams to deliver meaningful improvements for Metro and the Tasmanian community.
