Adrienne L. Johnson Appointed to Key Leadership Role
On January 14, 2026, the North County Transit District (NCTD), based in Oceanside, California, announced the appointment of Adrienne L. Johnson as the agency’s new Deputy Chief People Officer. This new role places Johnson at the helm of NCTD’s Human Resources and Learning and Development departments. She will report directly to Lori A. Winfree, NCTD’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief General Counsel.
“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 Winfree. “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.”
Extensive Human Resources Experience
Johnson brings with her over 17 years of experience in the field of Human Resources. Her career has been marked by a strong emphasis on talent management, organizational design, and regulatory compliance. She has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering inclusive and high-performing work environments.
For the past year, Johnson has served as NCTD’s Human Resources Director. In that role, she was responsible for overseeing a wide range of HR operations including compensation, benefits, labor relations, and recruitment. Her leadership was instrumental in aligning HR strategies with the agency’s mission and values.
Vision for a People-Centered Culture
In stepping into her new position, Johnson expressed enthusiasm and dedication to enhancing the agency’s focus on its workforce. “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 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.”
Her appointment reflects NCTD’s strategic commitment to building a workplace culture that not only attracts top talent but also supports the growth and well-being of its existing team members.
Career Highlights and Past Roles
Before joining NCTD, Johnson held several notable leadership positions in prominent organizations including CVS Health and Starbucks. In these roles, she was responsible for implementing vital Human Resources initiatives across multiple states and business units.
At CVS Health, Johnson led efforts in talent reviews, succession planning, and conflict resolution. Her work helped the company achieve its strategic workforce objectives while maintaining compliance with labor regulations. At Starbucks, she focused on employee performance and engagement, developing programs that supported team development and improved workplace satisfaction.
Educational Background and Community Engagement
Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology. Her academic foundation, combined with her extensive HR experience, positions her well to lead initiatives that enhance employee communication, development, and inclusion within NCTD.
She is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Her involvement in industry groups reflects her commitment to staying current with best practices and emerging trends in the HR field.
Additionally, Johnson serves as the Vice President of the San Diego Chapter of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). In this role, she advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the transportation industry, aligning closely with NCTD’s values.
A Strategic Step Forward for NCTD
Johnson’s promotion to Deputy Chief People Officer is part of a broader initiative by NCTD to advance its strategic goals through leadership excellence and employee engagement. Her proven track record in developing people strategies and managing complex HR functions makes her a key asset to the executive leadership team.
With employee experience high on NCTD’s agenda, Johnson’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in transforming workplace culture and aligning HR practices with the agency’s long-term vision. Her appointment underscores NCTD’s commitment to building a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing organization.
As NCTD continues to serve the public through efficient and sustainable transportation solutions, the agency recognizes that its success is rooted in the strength of its people. The addition of Adrienne L. Johnson to the executive team marks a significant step in ensuring that the agency remains an employer of choice in the region.
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