USVI - Chief Operating Officer (COO)
About The Position
Join a Transformational Airport Leadership Team. Step into a high-impact leadership opportunity with Avports as Chief Operating Officer (COO), overseeing operations at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) and Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) in the U.S. Virgin Islands! With both airports undergoing a major transformation under a public-private partnership (P3) model, this role offers a rare chance to lead through change—shaping operational strategy, strengthening regulatory performance, and redefining the passenger experience at two of the region’s most critical aviation gateways. As the most senior on-site leader representing Avports USVI LLC, the COO will have the opportunity to take full ownership of both the operational and strategic direction of two growing airport environments. This role offers a high-impact platform to lead all aspects of airport operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance while actively shaping and advancing the long-term vision under the SkyCity partnership. Working at the center of a dynamic and evolving organization, the COO will collaborate closely with federal agencies, airline partners, concessionaires, and key local stakeholders—positioning the role as a critical driver of transformation, innovation, and growth. This is a unique opportunity for a leader seeking meaningful scale and career acceleration—the COO will not only ensure operational excellence and strong business performance but will also play a defining role in elevating customer experience, modernizing operations, and helping build the future of airport management across both facilities.
Requirements
- Proven senior management experience in complex, multi-functional operational environments
- Strong knowledge of FAA, TSA, CBP, and airport regulatory frameworks
- Ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams and drive organizational performance
- Strong financial acumen, including budget oversight and cost management
- Excellent stakeholder management skills across government, airline, and community partners
- Demonstrated ability to lead through change, transformation, and growth initiatives
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability in high-pressure environments
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, or related field required
- 10+ years of airport operations experience, including at least 5 years in senior leadership roles
- Experience managing airport certification processes and regulatory compliance (FAA Part 139, TSA, CBP)
- Demonstrated ability to build consensus and manage stakeholder relationships across internal and external groups
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree preferred
- Preferred certifications: Accredited Airport Executive (AAE), International Airport Professional (IAP), or similar
Responsibilities
- Lead all airside and landside operations across both airports under the O&M agreement
- Ensure compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA, CBP, and all applicable federal and local regulations
- Serve as primary liaison with FAA, TSA, CBP, and regulatory agencies
- Oversee safety audits, inspections, and certification requirements
- Direct emergency preparedness and crisis response, including aircraft incidents, natural disasters, and security events
- Provide leadership to operations, maintenance, security, customer service, and facilities teams
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and service excellence
- Partner with leadership to execute strategic initiatives, including infrastructure and operational improvements
- Collaborate with airlines, concessionaires, and tenants to enhance performance and passenger experience
- Manage O&M budgets, drive cost efficiencies, and maintain financial discipline
- Partner with finance to evaluate performance and support capital planning
- Represent the organization in industry, regulatory, and stakeholder engagements
- Lead sustainability initiatives, including energy efficiency and decarbonization efforts
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match to support long-term financial goals
- Generous paid time off, holidays, and additional benefits
- Short- and long-term disability coverage for added security
- Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional support
- Ongoing professional development and leadership growth opportunities to accelerate your career
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Executive
