Deputy Director of Aviation - Business and Strategic Development

Deputy Director Of Aviation Business And Strategic Development

The Deputy Director of Aviation Business and Strategic Development serves as a key executive leader at Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport, providing strategic oversight and operational leadership across all facets of airport business management. Reporting directly to the Director of Aviation, this role is responsible for driving business efficiency, revenue growth, infrastructure development, and customer experience while ensuring regulatory compliance and financial stewardship. As a senior executive, the Deputy Director plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing the airport's strategic vision. This position requires a dynamic leader with deep expertise in business operations, project management, and stakeholder engagement. The Deputy Director also serves as Acting Director of Aviation in the absence of the Director, as directed. Under general direction of the Airport Director and through subordinate personnel, establishes policies and procedures of airport activities as well as plans, organizes, and substantially coordinates the high level aspects of all business, finance, properties management, negotiations, contracts, safety and security and customer service projects at the Airport. Union Affiliation : Non-Union Pay Grade 27 : $110,248.44 - $123,136.49 Annually Remote Tier 2 : Up to one (1) day remote / week

Essential Job Functions

Develop and implement high-level strategies, policies, and programs that enhance airport operations, efficiency, and financial performance

Lead cross-functional teams to drive business initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and long-term growth.

Represent the airport at key public meetings, media engagements, and industry conferences, advocating for its strategic priorities.

Provide executive oversight for all airport business operations, including commercial land development, property management, concessions, rental car activities, parking operations, and redevelopment of existing facilities.

Oversee the negotiation, execution, and administration of all tenant leases, agreements, and business contracts to optimize non-aeronautical and aeronautical revenue.

Develop and execute short- and long-term strategies to enhance customer experience and maximize revenue streams.

Direct the Manager of Customer Experience to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction within the airport's ambassador team

Establish and maintain effective partnerships with airport tenants, regulatory agencies, and business stakeholders to foster collaboration and operational excellence.

Oversee major capital improvement projects, ensuring strategic alignment, financial review and seamless integration with operational needs.

Review and approve project plans and specifications, ensuring coordination with the Director of Aviation and the Deputy Director of Aviation Operations as well as the leadership team.

Coordinates with Deputy Director of Aviation Operations on implementation of all construction projects and snow removal operations

Implementation of all construction projects and snow removal operations on areas outside of the airfield.

Lead contract procurement processes, including contractor pre-qualification, bid evaluation, and contract awards per Airport, Local, State, and Federal procurement regulations.

Provide executive oversight of all construction projects, collaborating with project managers, Engineering Department, and consultants to resolve challenges and ensure successful project execution.

Assist the Director of Engineering, Planning and Sustainability and the Director of Finance in the preparation and administration of federal and state grant applications, including, but not limited to, Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) funding.

Manage airport land projects, including negotiations with property owners, tenants, and relocation consultants.

Ensure all business and development initiatives align with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

Direct, mentor, and evaluate high-performing teams, fostering professional growth, employee engagement, and operational excellence. This includes direct management of the Customer Experience Manager and the Properties Manager and the associated teams.

Oversee recruitment, performance management, and professional development initiatives for key airport personnel.

Establish a culture of innovation, accountability, and customer-centric service across all business units.

May serve as a primary point of contact for media relations and public communications during critical airport events, including weather emergencies and operational disruptions.

Maintain communication with key stakeholders, government officials, and industry partners during emergency situations and high-impact developments.

Continuously works with the Airport Leadership team, including Deputy Director of Aviation Operations, Director of Finance, Director of Marketing and Innovation, and Director of Planning, Engineering and Sustainability.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Aviation

Qualifications / Basic Job Requirements

Ability to actively support City diversity, equity, and cultural competency efforts within stated job responsibilities and work effectively across diverse cultures and constituencies.

Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as evidenced by ongoing trainings and professional development.

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).

At least 10 years of progressive leadership experience. Preferred in airport management, business operations, or a related industry.

Expertise in contract negotiation, financial management, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure development.

Demonstrated ability to lead high-level strategic initiatives and cross-functional teams in a complex operational environment.

Strong public speaking, stakeholder engagement, and media relations skills.

Deep understanding of FAA regulations, grant programs, and airport financial management.

Three years of experience in financial accounting or project management.

Experience with municipal or government finance and operations preferred.

Experience with Airport Finance and Operations required.

Accreditation by the American Association of Airport Executives preferred.

Knowledge of basic principles, practices and techniques of Federal and state grant administration, and familiarity with Federal, state and local funding processes and programs preferred. Knowledge of federal, state and local regulations associated with land acquisition, environmental issues, and airport design standards essential.

Knowledge of the contracts, forms, terminology and procedures used in grants / contracts administration preferred.

Knowledge of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise programs and processes important.

Ability to interact with various agencies, contractors, architects and the federal and state government.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with the public and coworkers.

Familiarity with a variety of office equipment and computer systems including spreadsheets and word processing.

Attention to detail and accuracy required.

Regular attendance is necessary and is essential to meeting the expectations of the job functions.

Ability to understand and comply with City standards, safety rules and personnel policies.

Additional Information

Promoting a culture that reveres diversity and equity. The City of Burlington is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we are strongly committed to creating a dynamic and equitable work-force that mirrors the population and world that we serve. We do not discriminate on the basis of political or religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, crime victim status, veteran status, disability, HIV positive status, or genetic information in employment or the provision of services. In addition to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively encourage applicants who can contribute to our growing diversity to apply. Applications for our employment opportunities are accepted online through our Government Jobs website. For accessibility information or alternative formats, please contact Human Resources Department at 802-540-2505 or careers@burlingtonvt.gov.