2025 GEG Chief Executive Officer

Overview

The Spokane Airport Board seeks an innovative, forward-thinking Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who will be a champion for growth and development of the region, Spokane International, Felts Field Airport and the Airport Business Park.

The CEO will be someone who embraces the value of collaboration, is transparent, values multi-dimensional perspectives, inspires, and empowers others. This leader will take initiative in identifying opportunities, finding solutions, and executing on programs that improve the quality of service, financial stability and sustainability, and the organization’s benefit to the region. The CEO provides strategic leadership and oversight of all airport operations, including aeronautical activities and the commercial and industrial development of nonaeronautical properties. Reporting to the Airport Board, the CEO ensures the airport’s regulatory compliance, while advancing economic growth and operational excellence.

The CEO serves as the primary executive responsible for implementing Board policies, overseeing financial and business management, ensuring safety, security, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and leading a high-performing workforce. The role requires a visionary leader who can balance regulatory compliance with strategic initiatives to enhance airport operational effectiveness, foster business development, and improve the overall passenger and tenant experience.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all administrative, operational, and financial affairs of the Board in alignment with the Board’s directives.
• Develop a strong collaborative working relationship with the Board, assist the Board in its policy-making duties and enable the Board and its committees to make well-informed decisions by providing relevant information; share activities, opportunities, and risks to include options and potential consequences.
• Lead the development and implementation of both long- and short-term strategic initiatives and provide clear direction to the airport’s staff, integrating and coordinating with all departments, to optimize tangible and intangible assets and assure the Board achieves its strategic vision and mission.
• Establish financial philosophies and strategies for responsible planning, operation, and sustainment of programs, facilities, and services to include securing financial resources and grants to meet demands.
• Continually, creatively, and persuasively works to attract new air service at Spokane International Airport and ensure new and existing airline relationships and partnerships are well-maintained.
• Be a catalyst for economic development in the region and build partnerships that enhance awareness and support business recruitment and retention activities.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives that ensure regulatory compliance, enhance operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and strengthen economic sustainability.
• Proactively identify regulatory and legislative impacts to the airport system and educate and advocate for appropriate consideration and positive solutions.
• Nurture community relationships including with elected officials, business leaders, business partners, tenants, and neighbors of the airport.
• Negotiate agreements with airlines, tenants, vendors, service providers, consultants, concessionaires, and/or other businesses that operate at the Board’s facilities or provide professional or other services.
• Foster a positive work culture, build and inspire high performing team, champion professional growth and organizational excellence.

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, public administration, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Extensive executive-level experience in airport management, transportation, or economic development.
• Deep understanding of FAA regulations, commercial aviation, and public-sector administration.
• Proven track record in business development, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.
• Proven abilities in leadership demonstrating effective collaboration, empowering of others, and building trust among the team.
• Industry certifications and contributions are a plus.

Leadership Qualities and Style

• Visionary leadership with the ability to be forward thinking, drive strategic initiatives and long-term growth.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budgeting, capital planning, and revenue generation.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Conscious leader, ethical character, collaborative, inspirational and empowering.
• Commitment to operational excellence, safety, and regulatory compliance.

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