The Airport Manager serves as both a visionary leader and a hands-on operational executive, guiding the City of Lawrence’s Regional Airport into its next era of innovation and growth. This role is responsible for shaping and executing long-term strategies that expand infrastructure, attract new economic opportunities, and strengthen the airport’s regional impact. The Airport Manager leads all aspects of airport planning, daily operations, and regulatory compliance, while also managing leases, real estate development, and capital projects. A key ambassador for the airport, the Airport Manager, builds trusted relationships with the Federal Aviation Administration partners, the Airport Board, tenants, contractors, and the broader community. This position requires a dynamic leader who thrives on collaboration, delivers results, and inspires excellence, ensuring the airport remains a safe, efficient, and forward-thinking gateway for the region.

Education, Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain knowledge and abilities would be:

Qualified candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in aviation management, business or public administration, or related field.  A master’s degree in public administration or related field preferred. 

Candidates should also possess a minimum of five (5) years progressively responsible experience in aviation management, public administration, business administration or related field.  Certification from American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) preferred or the ability to obtain the certification within 24 months. FAA certifications such as Pilot Certificates and/or Airplane and Powerplant Certificates are also desirable.