The long waiting for American Green Card has started hurting US corporate world. Delays in the U.S. Green Card process are impacting leadership across various sectors. In some cases, it is forcing highly experienced executives to step down as their work permits expire. The growing backlog for permanent residency is now affecting even senior professionals who have legally resided and worked in the country for years, leaving them unable to continue in their critical roles without proper documentation.In a high-profile case highlighting this issue, Collie Greenwood, CEO of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), stepped down on July 17. His departure came after his U.S. work permit expired, and ongoing delays in receiving his green card made it impossible for him to continue in his position. Greenwood, a Canadian national, opted for early retirement, despite MARTA confirming on Thursday that the delivery of his green card remains “imminent.”
Immigration timelines ‘hurting’ corporate America
Greenwood, who assumed the role of MARTA’s CEO in January 2022, is widely credited with stabilizing the transit agency’s finances. However, in recent months, MARTA has faced hurdles in executing key expansion and improvement projects. His unexpected departure adds to a series of high-profile resignations within the U.S. transit sector recently, many of which have been linked to operational challenges and increasingly stringent immigration timelines.Greenwood’s Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expired on June 18, 2025, prompting his decision to take early retirement. MARTA confirmed that he remains legally in the U.S. on a valid Canadian visa while awaiting the “imminent” arrival of his Green Card.
What MARTA said on CEO’s resignation
Following the expiration of his permit, Greenwood immediately ceased working. He personally informed all MARTA board members and executive leaders of his situation and formally delegated authority to Rhonda Allen, MARTA’s Chief Customer Experience Officer.In a statement, MARTA acknowledged the challenging circumstances, stating, “The immigration process is extensive and has had an impact on Mr. Greenwood’s personal and professional progress. These challenges have been resolved with Mr. Greenwood’s decision, and the MARTA family supports him.”
