A real estate executive who played a prominent role in rebuilding the World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan will join the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to oversee its large infrastructure projects, officials said on Wednesday.

The executive, Janno Lieber, is leaving Silverstein Properties, a real estate firm, for a new role as chief development officer at the authority, which runs New York City’s subways, buses and commuter railroads. Starting in May, Mr. Lieber will manage the agency’s capital projects and real estate assets, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said.

“The projects in this newly created portfolio are essential for securing the future of the M.T.A.,” Mr. Cuomo said in a statement. “Bringing Janno Lieber on board is a perfect example of leveraging private-sector talent and experience to accomplish our bold and ambitious agenda to continue transforming the M.T.A.”

Mr. Cuomo, who controls the authority, has taken an increasingly hands-on role at the agency as he focuses on improving the region’s infrastructure. Mr. Lieber will oversee several high-profile projects, including building the next phase of the Second Avenue subway, to 125th Street in Manhattan, and a new train terminal under Grand Central Terminal for the Long Island Rail Road.