Leadership in government is a unique and demanding responsibility, especially in critical areas like transportation. Anthony Foxx, former U.S. Transportation Secretary under the Obama administration and current co-director of Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership, recently shared his insights into the challenges and opportunities awaiting the next Transportation Secretary.
Drawing on his experience as both a government leader and advisor to current Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Foxx provides valuable lessons for navigating this complex role.
In this article, we’ll explore his advice, observations, and the key takeaways for future leaders in transportation, shedding light on the interplay between safety, innovation, and effective governance.
The Importance of Building Relationships and Institutional Knowledge
Anthony Foxx emphasizes the critical importance of understanding the agency and its people. He advises incoming Transportation Secretaries to engage with institutional memory within the department, particularly in areas like safety.
“There is a lot of important institutional memory in the agency,” Foxx notes, “especially in the realm of safety.” While a leader may not always agree with every recommendation, the expertise and historical context of staff are invaluable in shaping well-informed decisions.
For any new leader, taking time to build trust and rapport with agency personnel is a cornerstone of effective governance. By leveraging the knowledge and experience within the Department of Transportation (DOT), leaders can create a foundation for impactful policymaking.
Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles
One of the significant challenges Foxx faced during his tenure was navigating the complexities of the regulatory process. He highlights how the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) can slow progress, even when rules are well-constructed.
“OIRA can refuse to accept well-constructed rules if they so choose,” Foxx reveals, “creating the perception that the Department of Transportation is not moving fast enough to adopt safety rules.”
This bottleneck underscores the importance of persistence and strategic planning in regulatory matters. Leaders must balance the need for timely action with the realities of bureaucratic processes, ensuring that critical safety regulations are not unduly delayed.
Balancing Safety and Innovation
Emerging transportation technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and drones, present both challenges and opportunities for the Department of Transportation. Foxx identifies the perception that safety regulations hinder innovation as a significant obstacle for future leaders.
“The Department of Transportation has the opportunity to provide clarity and certainty,” Foxx explains, “which can enable innovation to be integrated into the transportation system safely.”
Striking this balance requires a nuanced approach. On one hand, innovation must not compromise public safety. On the other hand, clear and adaptive regulatory frameworks can foster technological advancements, driving progress in the transportation sector.
Managing Stress in High-Pressure Roles
Leadership roles in government often come with immense pressure, and Foxx candidly shares his experiences of managing stress. When asked where he went to have a meltdown, his response was both relatable and revealing: “There is no place to hide.”
For Foxx, maintaining perspective was key. He reminded himself of the importance of a safe and efficient transportation system, not just for the nation but for his own family. This mindset enabled him to approach his responsibilities with diligence and care, even during the most challenging moments.
Former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood offered a different strategy, finding serenity in his hometown of Peoria. Whether through personal reflection or connection to one’s roots, leaders must find ways to recharge and sustain their resilience.
Advice for Future Transportation Secretaries
Drawing on his tenure and ongoing involvement in transportation policy, Foxx offers actionable advice for the next Cabinet Secretary:
- Engage with Institutional Memory: Learn from the agency’s history and staff expertise to make informed decisions.
- Prioritize Safety: Always treat safety as a non-negotiable priority, integrating it into every aspect of decision-making.
- Communicate Clearly: Address the public and stakeholders transparently, particularly regarding the interplay between safety and innovation.
- Adapt to Emerging Technologies: Embrace innovation while creating regulations that protect the public and enable progress.
- Stay Resilient: Develop strategies for managing stress and maintaining perspective in high-pressure situations.
Conclusion: Leadership That Shapes the Future of Transportation
The role of the Transportation Secretary is more than a position—it’s a pivotal influence on the safety, efficiency, and innovation of the nation’s transportation systems. Anthony Foxx’s insights illuminate the complexities of this responsibility, offering a roadmap for future leaders to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
By prioritizing safety, fostering innovation, and leveraging institutional knowledge, leaders can leave a lasting impact on the nation’s transportation infrastructure. As the baton passes to the next Transportation Secretary, the lessons of those who have held the role before will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Anthony Foxx’s current role?
Anthony Foxx is the co-director of Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership, where he focuses on leadership development and advising policymakers.
2. What advice does Foxx give to new Transportation Secretaries?
Foxx advises leaders to engage with the agency’s institutional memory, prioritize safety, and balance innovation with regulatory clarity.
3. What is the biggest obstacle for the Department of Transportation?
The perception that safety regulations hinder innovation is a significant challenge, particularly with emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles and drones.
4. How did Foxx manage stress during his tenure?
Foxx maintained perspective by reminding himself of the importance of his work for public safety and found resilience through this mindset.
5. How can the DOT support innovation?
The DOT can create clear and adaptive regulatory frameworks that enable technological advancements while ensuring public safety.