Interim chief named for MBTA

By Noah Bierman, Globe Staff

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s long-time finance chief was named interim general manager today, a title he will hold for about two months while the T seeks a permanent leader.

 Jonathan Davis, 63, has steered the MBTA’s finances since 1995, finding ways to pay the system’s bills amid heavy debt. Richard Davey, who leaves his post as general manager to become state transportation secretary on Sept. 2, said Davis is not under consideration to take the job on a permanent basis.

“Jon’s been at the MBTA for 15 years and has had a record of steady leadership,” Davey said. “He will be an excellent caretaker of the system.”

Davis said he would keep the focus on Davey’s goals, including safety, customer service, worker morale, and financial stability.

“Certainly from a fiscal perspective, having been here about 16 years, I’m very well versed in the financial challenges the agency has,” Davis said. “If I can move forward on the financial stability of the organization, I will feel I have accomplished something during my tenure as acting GM.”

Before joining the T, Davis worked for 25 years at H.P. Hood, Inc. , the Lynnfield-based dairy. He held various positions there: vice president and controller, vice president operations planning, vice president MIS and treasurer, and corporate controller.  He received his MBA at Babson College and his BS at The Defiance College. Davis lives in Medford with his wife and two children.