Director, Air Service Development

The Position

The Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) is seeking a proven leader to serve as the Director of Air Service Development. In this key role, you will drive the strategy to retain and expand domestic and international passenger and cargo routes at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). Based in vibrant Fort Myers, Florida, this position offers an extraordinary opportunity to shape the future of air transportation in the region while enjoying competitive compensation, an outstanding benefits package, and the unmatched sunshine, beaches, and year-round outdoor lifestyle of beautiful Southwest Florida! 

The anticipated annual salary for the ideal candidate is between $112,414 and $155,000

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, marketing, economics or a closely related field
• Minimum of six years of aviation industry work experience in the areas of air service development, airline route planning or travel/aviation industry marketing; including at least three years in an administrative, supervisory or leadership role
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Must successfully complete a TSA fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check (CHRC), Security Threat Assessment (STA) and a U.S. Customs Airport Security Program Check to obtain and maintain all necessary airport security badges and credentials (SIDA, Customs Seal)
• Current, valid US passport
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally to meet with airline partners and attend industry conferences
• A valid Florida driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze passenger traffic, market trends, and economic data to identify, forecast, and pursue domestic and international route opportunities
• Create and present high-level business cases to airline executives to retain and expand passenger and cargo services at RSW
• Formulate and manage the Air Service Incentive Program and collaborate with internal marketing teams to execute data-driven promotional campaigns for new and existing routes
• Lead international air service growth by monitoring regulatory updates and bilateral route authority developments
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with airlines, aviation groups, local businesses, and state/local tourism leaders
• Prepare, justify, and oversee the annual department budget, maintaining strict control over expenditures and incentive funding

Benefits

• Relocation reimbursement
• Comprehensive affordable benefits package including medical, dental, vision
• Florida Retirement System, 457 deferred compensation program
• Generous PTO, 11 paid holidays, 1 personal day
• And more!

Please review full job description here