Chief Operating Officer

Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement pension plan

457 plan

Relocation assistance

Paid leave and holidays

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport (ROA) seeks a Vice President & Chief Operating Officer to lead daily operations, drive safety, and shape the future of the region’s gateway. You will report to the President & CEO and translate the airport commission’s strategic plan into actionable priorities.

The role requires expertise in airfield and terminal operations, capital projects, and stakeholder relations with airlines, tenants, and agencies.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of Part 139 airport operations experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management or related field.
• Strong knowledge of Part 139, TSRs 1540/1542, SMS, and emergency management.
• Proven experience leading teams and managing budgets.
• Preferred: 10+ years leadership; credentials; capital program experience.
• Virginia driver's license, SIDA badge eligibility, after-hours availability.

Responsibilities

• Oversee airfield, terminal, and landside operations.
• Ensure FAA Part 139 certificate and regulatory compliance.
• Direct capital projects and facilities maintenance.
• Lead safety culture and emergency planning.
• Partner with airlines, tenants, and community.

Skills

Airport ops leadership

Budget management

Part 139 knowledge

Emergency management

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's in Aviation/Business/Public Admin/Engineering

Job description

Lead the operation that connects a region to the world.

RRAC is looking for a Vice President & Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead daily operations and help shape the future of Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport (ROA). You'll report directly to the President & CEO as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team. You'll turn the Airport Commission's strategic plan into clear priorities, service standards, and results.

This role suits a leader who is as comfortable on the airfield during a snow event as in front of the Airport Commission Board, with aspirations of advancing your career.

What You'll Lead

• Operations, Certification & compliance: airfield, terminal, and landside operations, including ownership of the FAA Part 139 Operating Certificate and continuous FAA, TSA, and EPA compliance
• Facilities & infrastructure: maintenance, grounds, custodial services, asset management, and the operational side of capital and construction projects
• Safety & readiness: a proactive safety culture, emergency preparedness, and planning for severe weather and irregular operations
• People & partnerships: developing and engaging staff, managing budgets with the CFO, and building strong relationships with airlines, tenants, agencies, and the community

What You Bring

• 5+ years of airport operations experience at a Part 139 commercial service airport
• A bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business, Public Administration, Engineering, or a related field (equivalent education and experience considered)
• Strong knowledge of Part 139, TSRs 1540/1542, SMS, and emergency management
• Proven experience leading teams, managing budgets, and overseeing contractors
• Preferred: 10+ years of progressive leadership; A.A.E., C.M., P.E., or similar credentials; capital program experience; a master's degree
• Requirements: A valid Virginia driver's license (or one obtained within 60 days of relocating), SIDA badge eligibility, and availability for after-hours emergencies and weather events.

Why ROA

You'll have a seat at the leadership table of a fast-growing commercial service airport in one of the highest rated places to live in the United States - Virginia's Blue Ridge! An outdoor lover's paradise, with great restaurants, arts/culture and an extremely affordable cost of living. RRAC offers great Benefits include health and dental insurance, retirement pension plan, a 457 plan, flexible spending accounts, generous paid leave and holidays, and relocation assistance.

Roanoke Regional Airport Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer.