Deputy Executive Director - Chief Development Officer

About Us

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is an award-winning, medium-hub commercial service airport that served more than a record-breaking 11 million passengers in 2024 and is one of the top 50 airports in the United States for passenger traffic. Fifteen airlines serve RSW with nonstop service to 70 markets, including Canada and Germany. The economic impact of the airport is $8.3 billion annually to the Southwest Florida region and more than 60,000 jobs. Page Field (FMY), an FAA-designated reliever airport, provides services to general and business aviation and accommodated 169,000 aircraft operations in 2024. Base Operations at Page Field is an award-winning, fixed-based operator and has been recognized for its customer service and facilities.

Terminal Expansion projects are currently underway at RSW to improve the airport travel experience by consolidating the security checkpoints, adding concession space and providing passengers more amenities and options. In addition, a new Concourse E is being constructed with 14 gates, as well as other terminal, landside and airside improvements.

The anticipated starting salary for the ideal candidate is $200K annually

The Position 

The Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as Deputy Executive Director – Chief Development Officer (CDO). This executive position oversees all aspects of the Port Authority’s Development Division, including Capital Programming, Engineering & Construction, and Environmental Compliance & Planning for Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Page Field (FMY).

The CDO directs, manages, and coordinates all aspects of the Port Authority’s Development and Capital Improvement Programs from inception through completion, including planning, budgeting, funding, permitting, design, construction, administration, and project close-out to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Public Administration, or related field
• 10+ years of progressive experience in capital project or airport/infrastructure management
• 5+ years in a senior supervisory or managerial role
• Valid Florida driver’s license within 30 days of hire and ability to operate a Port Authority vehicle

Key Responsibilities

• Oversees project planning, design progression, phasing, and scheduling to maintain projects on time and within budget
• Leads high-level contract negotiations and oversees project planning, permitting, funding, design, and construction to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards
• Manages and directs personnel functions for the Development Division including conducting staff performance evaluations, coaching, and professional development to promote a high-performing team
• Develops and delivers reports, presentations, and project updates to the Board of Port Commissioners and executive leadership, effectively communicating project status, funding needs, and strategic initiatives
• Represents the Port Authority at conferences, meetings, and professional events; engages in professional development to maintain current knowledge of industry trends, best practices and regulatory requirements; travel as needed
• Responds to emergencies related to projects or environmental events and assists with other emergencies as requested by the Executive Director
• Serves in an on-call capacity 24 hours a day and performs other duties as assigned

Join a forward-thinking team shaping the future of aviation at the Southwest Florida International Airport and Page Field!