Navigating Major Programmes

When delivering major projects, from buildings to city-wide events, safety is always paramount. Dorit Mason knows this better than most. The Director Safety, Emergency and Environment Management at TransLink, Dorit’s 25-year career most recently culminated in Vancouver’s 2026 FIFA World Cup partnership. She brings a perspective rooted in planning for risk, uncertainty, and change. FIFA, though unique in many ways, is at its root a major programme, and there is much to be learned from its delivery.

In her conversation with Evgenia and Riccardo, Dorit explores what happens behind the scenes when a public transportation agency prepares for an event of this scale. Planning began years in advance and required operational management on four major fronts: transit service, safety and security, communications, and logistics. Her team tackled internal coordination challenges while also continuing to deliver a positive experience for out-of-town fans and regular commuters alike.

Every major project requires safety and emergency management. While specific hazards vary by location and project—from pandemics and earthquakes to motor vehicle incidents or safety risks—both dedicated response and general management teams require clear, rehearsed response structures. Dorit gives examples to highlight the value of operational readiness, relationship-building, and safety thinking throughout every project’s lifecycle. Ultimately, the conversation shows that successful emergency management—invisible if everything goes well—can only succeed with deep preparation, strong relationships, and a shared understanding of why the work matters.

“[Success] comes ​from … aligning [the project’s importance] ​with ​each ​of ​the ​different ​parts ​of ​the ​organization ​and ​showing ​what ​they ​contribute.” - Dorit Mason