Industry & Services >> CEO Interviews >> July 30, 2015

Interview with the Founder, Chairman and CEO: Student Transportation Inc. (STB)

Denis J. Gallagher
Denis J. Gallagher, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Student Transportation Inc., has over 39 years of experience in the passenger transportation industry. He directs the strategic operations of Student Transportation Inc. while leading and developing investor activities through capital raises and debt financing for the company. Mr. Gallagher formed Student Transportation Inc. in 1997, making him the third generation in his family to found and head a passenger transportation company. He has been deeply involved in developing the culture of the company, one that is based on family values and respect for all. Prior to forming Student Transportation Inc., Mr. Gallagher was Regional Vice President and then Senior Vice President of Operations for Laidlaw Passenger Services Group, with responsibility for over 200 locations in the U.S. As a member of the Laidlaw senior executive team, he played a key role in the company’s expansion into new markets, along with the consolidation and integration of many acquisitions. Mr. Gallagher began his career at Coast Cities School Buses Inc., which was founded in 1922 by his grandfather and father; he later, as President and CEO, grew the company to the largest privately held school bus company in New Jersey. A 1976 graduate of Monmouth University, Mr. Gallagher earned a B.S. in business administration. He is a past member of the university’s board of trustees and was the recipient of the university’s Distinguished Alumni Award. He is involved in numerous industry and community activities. Profile
TWST: Let’s start with some historical background on the company, leading into an overview of your business operations today.

Mr. Gallagher: To give you an idea of the background,