What are the responsibilities and job description for the GENERAL MANAGER AIRPORT position at City of Lawrence?
Ready to lead the next chapter of aviation in Lawrence, Kansas? The City of Lawrence is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking General Manager to provide executive leadership for Lawrence Regional Airport (LWC).
Summary:
The General Manager serves as both a visionary leader and a hands-on operational executive, guiding the airport into its next era of innovation and growth. This role is responsible for shaping and executing long-term strategies that expand infrastructure, attract economic opportunity, and strengthen the airport’s regional impact. The General Manager leads airport planning, operations, and regulatory compliance, while overseeing capital improvement planning, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) coordination, leasing, real estate development, and major projects. This position carries executive authority over airport strategy, capital planning, regulatory coordination, and external advocacy on behalf of the City and Airport. As the airport’s chief ambassador, the General Manager builds strong relationships with the FAA, Airport Advisory Board, tenants, contractors, and the broader community, ensuring LWC remains a safe, efficient, and forward-thinking gateway for the region.
Qualifications:
This position requires demonstrated readiness for executive-level leadership, decision-making, and external coordination. 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:
Education
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, including experience with capital programs, regulatory coordination, and organizational leadership.
Certifications
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. Experience working directly with FAA programs, grants, and compliance processes is strongly preferred.
Please click HERE to review our brochure outlining details of this position.
Benefit Information:
Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance: Various coverage levels available; FREE Well Care Clinic through LMH; other wellness benefits/perks
Caregiver Leave – 12 weeks paid leave
Paid Time Off:12 Vacation days, 12 Sick days accrued per year; 2 days Personal Leave, 10 Paid Holidays
Retirement: Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS)
Salary : $111,363 - $135,366