Airport Director & Strategic Operations Leader

City-of-Fayetteville,-Ar; Fayetteville (AR); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Fayetteville's Drake Field oversees a Part 139 certificated airport and is seeking an experienced Airport Director. You will direct operations, maintenance, and development, focusing on service quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

This leadership role requires strategic planning, budget oversight, grant administration, and strong relationships with FAA, state agencies, and local partners. You will guide marketing, tenant recruitment, and capital projects to support growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum five years of experience managing a revenue-generating operation, including pricing, cost control, staffing, and financial reporting, with at least three years in management.
• Experience negotiating and managing leases or commercial contracts, including setting rates and enforcing terms.
• Experience running an operation subject to regulatory inspection, safety, or compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement airport marketing strategies.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a valid driver’s license and pass background checks.
• Strong written and oral communication with diverse stakeholders in complex settings.

Responsibilities

• Direct the operation, maintenance, and development of the City’s municipal airport.
• Market the airport and recruit aviation-related tenants from local and regional markets.
• Schedule and conduct Airport Board Meetings and prepare agendas.
• Oversee the fixed base operator, set service standards, and monitor customer satisfaction.
• Manage budget, fuel pricing, hangar rates, and revenue growth; control operating costs.
• Prepare the Airport Master Plan and grant applications; report to FAA and other agencies.
• Negotiate and enforce leases and contracts; coordinate approvals through City channels.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Strategic planning

Negotiation

Communication

Public speaking

Team development

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

The City of Fayetteville's Drake Field oversees a Part 139 certificated airport and is seeking an experienced Airport Director. You will direct operations, maintenance, and development, focusing on service quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

This leadership role requires strategic planning, budget oversight, grant administration, and strong relationships with FAA, state agencies, and local partners. You will guide marketing, tenant recruitment, and capital projects to support growth.