Meet Karen

Karen Kimber, Manager of Regulatory Compliance and Civil Rights, has been with LBT for three years. In her role, she provides strategic guidance to Executive Leadership and staff on regulatory policies and ensures organizational compliance across key civil rights programs. Her responsibilities include oversight of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VI and labor compliance programs. 

A proud Long Beach native, Karen’s connection to LBT began long before her professional journey. “Growing up, going to the mall was a big deal,” she said. “So instead of relying on our parents for a ride, my friends and I would take LBT. We always had a positive experience, and that early connection gave me a lasting appreciation for the agency and its role in the community.” 

Karen initially joined LBT as a Human Resources Manager before being promoted to her current leadership role. The decision to work at LBT was both a career move and a personal one. “Joining LBT felt like a meaningful way to give back to the city that shaped me,” she shared. “My grandmother lived down the street from Long Beach Transit yard off Anaheim St., so being able to serve this community really means a lot to me.” 

One of her favorite parts of the job is interacting with operators during training sessions. These hands-on moments help her stay grounded in the day-to-day realities of transit service. “Being in the office, you don’t always get a full understanding of what it takes to do the job,” Karen explained. “Working with operators during training allows me to hear what they’re encountering on the road, how they respond to customers, and how we can continue improving to ensure every rider is treated with dignity and respect.” 

When asked what advice she’d give to new riders, Karen encourages taking advantage of the tools LBT offers. “There’s so much technology out there to help new riders get to their destination on time,” she said. “I recommend using the trip planner on our website, the Text For Next feature, or calling our Customer Care team for assistance.” 

When Karen is not working, you can find her traveling to different countries, where she enjoys experiencing new cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life. 

If you have a passion for serving your community like Karen, LBT is currently looking for a Regulatory Compliance and Civil Rights Officer (RCCRO).  Visit ridelbt.com/careers to view this position and explore other roles.   

Thank you, Karen for all you do for LBT and your commitment to our community!