BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - AIRPORT

Description

The Business Development Manager is responsible for driving strategic initiatives in business development, project management, and airport marketing to grow passenger and cargo services, attract new business opportunities, and enhance the Lynchburg Regional Airport’s position in the market. This role requires a dynamic, results-driven professional with a proven ability to build partnerships, lead projects, and execute data-driven marketing campaigns that strengthen community and stakeholder engagement. Under general supervision of the Assistant Director of Economic Development and the Airport Director.

Find out more about the City of Lynchburg! https://www.opportunitylynchburg.com/

The hiring range for this position is $52,020.80 - $74,276.80.

Essential Duties

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties necessary to deliver services to customers, citizens, and other personnel may be assigned.
Business Development

• Identify and pursue strategic opportunities to attract new air services, retain existing airline partnerships, and expand cargo operations.
• Build and maintain relationships with airline corporate offices, cargo operators, and aviation-related businesses to promote Lynchburg Regional Airport as a preferred destination.
• Develop and present professional, data-informed proposals to airline route planners, corporate travel groups, and community organizations to support business expansion efforts.
• Conduct market and fare analyses, compile competitive data, and create actionable insights to strengthen the airport’s business case with airlines and stakeholders.
• Represent the airport at industry trade shows, conferences, and meetings to foster partnerships and secure growth opportunities.

• Oversee cross-functional projects, ensuring alignment with the airport’s strategic goals, budgetary constraints, and timelines.
• Manage vendor relationships, including contracts for marketing, advertising, and research services, ensuring effective performance and value.
• Coordinate new service launches, terminal projects, and community events, tracking milestones and delivering measurable results.
• Monitor and evaluate air service performance, implementing strategies to optimize routes and passenger satisfaction.

• Develop and execute integrated marketing campaigns that promote airport services, enhance the passenger experience, and grow the airport’s brand visibility.
• Oversee the creation of promotional materials, digital content, and advertising initiatives across multiple channels, managing a $100,000 annual marketing budget.
• Collaborate with city Communications & Public Engagement to manage the airport’s website and social media platforms, ensuring timely, accurate, and engaging content delivery.
• Draft press releases, talking points, and presentations to support the Airport Director’s communication efforts with media, stakeholders, and community partners.
• Plan and execute milestone events, such as new route inaugurals, community celebrations, and press conferences.

• Collaborate with Communications & Public Engagement to assist the media, providing timely and transparent communication;
• Foster relationships with local civic, tourism, and business organizations to promote the airport’s services and initiatives.
• Lead volunteer recruitment and training efforts to support airport programs and events.
• Represent the airport at community outreach events, travel fairs, and career expos, showcasing its contributions to regional economic growth

• Other duties to provide direct or indirect service to the citizens may be assigned.
• When unusual situations occur and/or the City Manager declares a State of Emergency, all City employees may be required to accept special assignments and perform as needed to ensure appropriate service delivery.

• May be assigned to regularly oversee the of work part-time personnel, interns, and contracted services personnel, etc.

Minimum Education and Experience Required

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, communications, aviation management, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be used to meet this requirement.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in business development, project management, or marketing roles, preferably within the aviation or transportation industry.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in data-driven decision-making.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator).
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously with a focus on results.
• Valid driver’s license required.

• Experience in air service development, airline negotiations, and airport operations.
• Familiarity with aviation industry databases and tools, such as the U.S. DOT Origin/Destination database.
• Proven track record of managing advertising contracts and sponsorship agreements.
• Membership in industry organizations such as AAAE, ACI-NA, or Routes Americas is a plus.