Over a career spanning transportation, infrastructure, procurement, and contract management, Omar Messado has built a reputation for fairness, strategic thinking, and helping others succeed. His journey from a young immigrant in New York to a respected procurement leader shows how consistency, resilience, and strong values can shape a lasting career.

Early Life and Education

Messado was born in Jamaica and immigrated to the United States when he was 10 years old. He grew up in New York City alongside his two brothers while his parents worked hard to build a life for their family.

He attended parochial schools throughout Brooklyn, the Bronx, and New York City before graduating from Rice High School with Honors and receiving a special award in business.

His interest in business continued through college. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Iona College and later completed coursework in Financial Planning at Pace University. Years later, he expanded his expertise by earning a Master’s degree in Transportation Management from the Civil Engineering Department at Polytechnic Institute of New York University.

Career

Throughout his career, he has managed large procurement operations involving rolling stock, infrastructure projects, contract negotiations, and strategic sourcing initiatives. He has overseen teams responsible for supporting critical transportation systems and major capital programs.

Messado believes successful careers are built through careful planning and adaptability.

He emphasizes setting both short-term and long-term goals while recognizing that unexpected changes can require adjustments along the way.

His approach resembles project management. Large objectives are broken into stages, allowing progress to be measured and refined over time.

Off The Clock

Outside of work, he stays active through cycling and swimming. In fact, swimming has become an important part of his daily routine.

The habit helps him reset, manage stress, and maintain focus.