
FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Phil Tighe has joined Blue Bird as chief financial officer.
Tighe joins the school bus manufacturer with more than 30 years of financial experience with Ford Motor Co.
Phil Tighe joins the school bus manufacturer with more than 30 years of financial experience with Ford Motor Co. Most recently, he was based in Shanghai, leading Ford's strategic planning for growth in Asia.

FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Phil Tighe has joined Blue Bird as chief financial officer.
Tighe joins the school bus manufacturer with more than 30 years of financial experience with Ford Motor Co.
His experience includes financial control and strategic planning, both domestically and internationally. He has held positions in North America, South America, Asia and Europe.
Most recently, Tighe was based in Shanghai, leading Ford's strategic planning for growth in Asia.
“We are delighted to welcome Phil to the Blue Bird team,” President and CEO Phil Horlock said. “Phil brings a thorough knowledge of the finance function and considerable experience in developing and executing business strategies with the operations that drive profitable growth. His experience will be invaluable as we continue to grow our market share both domestically and internationally.”
Tighe received his Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Melbourne (Australia) and his Master of Business Administration degree from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.

Check out some of the latest personnel moves from across the school bus industry, including new leadership appointments, various promotions, and major restructuring.
Read More →
A cleaner layout, improved organization, and a better reading experience are here. Explore what’s new on schoolbusfleet.com!
Read More →
A firsthand look at how diverse leadership in school transportation builds trust and drives stronger systems.
Read More →
We're looking for an amazing school bus contractor executive who embodies dedication, excellence, and innovation. Nominate the greats you know for SBF's 2026 award! Nominations close March 31.
Read More →
Nominations are now open for the second annual 2026 School Bus Driver Hero Award. Help us honor the drivers who selflessly dedicate themselves to ensuring the safety, well-being, and success of the students they transport every day.
Read More →
Check in with Tennessee’s new state transportation manager, Josh Hinerman, as he reflects on his journey, path to leadership, and priorities for student-centered transportation.
Read More →
The new program rewards B2B audience readers for engaging with trusted content and suppliers, earning them points toward events, travel, and more.
Read More →
What if your fleet technology actually worked together? Learn eight practical strategies to integrate multiple systems into one platform, unlocking clearer insights, stronger safety standards, and smoother daily operations.
Read More →
NAPT announced the results of its 2026 special election, naming new regional directors for Regions 3 and 6.
Read More →
Strong communication and trust between transportation leaders and school boards are essential to safe, effective operations. Here’s how to build a better partnership.
Read More →