Vice President, Operations

Job Purpose

Leads the strategic direction, performance, and daily operations of a complex airport concessions program.

Job Summary

The Vice President of Operations performs advanced professional work at a senior management level and is responsible for the comprehensive management and development of an airport concessions program. Work involves strategic, operational, and financial oversight, as well as team leadership to execute a complex airport concessions program. Work requires knowledge, understanding, and application of property administration and contract compliance, budget forecasting, project management, community engagement, and marketing principles and practices. The work requires the ability to exercise judgement, negotiate effectively, problem solve, foster positive relationships with multiple stakeholders, and lead the implementation of innovative customer centric programs. The work is performed in an airport terminal environment and is performed under limited supervision, requiring determining how and when expected results are achieved. Role is an integral member of the Operations team, ensuring compliance in all functional areas. Requires attention to detail and ability to work independently as well as in a team environment in a fast-paced atmosphere of multiple projects, shifting priorities, and deadline pressures. 

Key Job Responsibilities 

• Lead strategy, leasing, development, financial performance, and operations.
• Ensure compliance with all agreements, including Master Lease and subleases.
• Build and maintain relationships with airport stakeholders, tenants, vendors, and community partners.
• Develop and execute leasing strategies and identify growth opportunities.
• Oversee Launchpad participation and initiatives.
• Analyze market trends, customer segments, and competitive positioning.
• Direct marketing efforts and revenue-generating initiatives.
• Manage contracts, vendors, and third-party partners.
• Oversee construction and development projects in coordination with internal teams.
• Negotiate sublease terms aligned with financial and operational goals.
• Monitor program performance, budgets, forecasts, and risk.
• Identify new revenue streams and expand existing operations.
• Lead, develop, and evaluate team performance.

Qualifications & Competencies

Technical Competencies

• Expertise in property leasing, development, and management
• Strong financial, analytical, and budgeting skills
• Market and business intelligence
• Project management and strategic execution
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and business systems

Core Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Relationship building and stakeholder engagement
• Influencing and negotiation
• Problem-solving and strategic thinking
• Organization, adaptability, and collaboration
• Customer service orientation
• Organized and detail-oriented

Required Education 

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Marketing, Aviation Management, Real Estate, Property Management or related field

Experience

• 10+ years in property management or progressive leadership (airport or commercial development)
• 3+ years of community engagement experience

Preferred

• MBA or Master’s in Real Estate
• Aviation, retail leasing, or restaurant development experience

Licenses & Certifications

• Relevant certifications (e.g., CCIM, PMP, ACI-NA) preferred
• Ability to obtain/maintain SIDA badge
• Valid driver’s license (if required)

Physical Demands

• Ability to walk, stand, and work across airport environments for extended periods
• Occasional lifting up to 15 pounds
• Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.