By SDCN Staff
Oceanside, CA–North County Transit – San Diego Railroad (NCTD) has appointed Adrienne Johnson to serve as the agency’s Deputy Chief People Officer.
In this role, Johnson will oversee NCTD’s Human Resources and Learning and Development departments, working to advance the agency’s employee experience objectives. Johnson will report to the agency’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief General Counsel Lori Winfree.
“Adrienne brings a wealth of experience to this role, and we’re excited to have her on board to advance critical initiatives at NCTD,” said Lori A. Winfree, NCTD Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief General Counsel. “Providing a world-class employee experience is a key facet of NCTD’s North Star, and I have no doubt that Adrienne will work diligently to move us forward toward our goals.”
With over 17 years of experience in Human Resources, Johnson has led strategic initiatives in talent management, organizational design, and regulatory compliance. For the past year, Johnson has served as NCTD’s Human Resources Director, managing and overseeing all aspects of human resources operations at the district, including compensation, benefits, labor relations, and recruitment.
“I am delighted to move into this leadership role at NCTD and look forward to enhancing the incredible work the organization is already doing,” said Deputy Chief People Officer Adrienne Johnson. “I am motivated to champion a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and empowered to thrive. As I continue my journey with NCTD, I will lead with a deliberate and people-centered approach guided by the principle of treating others the way they want to be treated.”
Before joining NCTD, Johnson held leadership roles for organizations such as CVS Health and Starbucks. In these positions, Johnson implemented key Human Resources strategies across multi-state regions. At CVS Health, she oversaw talent reviews and succession planning, resolved complex employee issues, and drove company objectives. At Starbucks, Johnson led and enforced programs focusing on employee performance and engagement.
Johnson obtained a Bachelor of Science in speech pathology and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Society for Human Resource Management. Johnson currently serves as the Vice President of the San Diego Chapter of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials.
