Executive Director

Job Title: Executive Director  

Organization: Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority  

Location: Selma, Alabama  

Reports To: Board of Directors  

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority. This full-time, on-site leadership role is responsible for providing visionary direction for the publicly owned general aviation airport and its 2,200-acre industrial complex in Selma, Alabama. The Executive Director drives safe, efficient, and compliant airport operations while leading aggressive economic development initiatives to establish Craig Field as a premier regional aviation and logistics hub for West Central Alabama.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Business Development

• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans to transform Craig Field into a leading regional aviation and intermodal logistics center.
• Identify and pursue opportunities in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, distribution, military/contractor support, emergency response, and aviation training.
• Lead marketing and business development efforts to attract new tenants, industries, and investment to available industrial properties and facilities.

Operations & Regulatory Compliance

• Oversee all airport operations, including airfield maintenance, facilities management, fueling, aircraft support services, and emergency planning.
• Ensure full compliance with FAA regulations (Part 139), TSA security requirements, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the FAA, state aviation agencies, and other regulatory bodies.

Financial & Grant Management

• Prepare, administer, and monitor annual operating and capital budgets.
• Identify, secure, and manage federal and state grants (FAA AIP, EDA, etc.) for infrastructure, facility improvements, and economic development projects.
• Negotiate leases, contracts, and agreements to maximize revenue and asset utilization.

Economic Development & Community Engagement

• Partner with the Selma-Dallas County Economic Development Authority, local governments, educational institutions (e.g., Wallace Community College), and workforce partners to drive job creation and training programs.
• Promote Craig Field through public outreach, stakeholder engagement, and signature events.
• Foster a culture of safety, customer service, and continuous improvement.

Team & Resource Management

• Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing team.
• Oversee contractor relationships and capital improvement projects.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in airport management, military aviation operations, or economic development.
• Demonstrated success in financial management, budgeting, grant administration, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong track record in business development, stakeholder relations, and strategic planning.

Preferred

• Background as a military or commercial pilot with leadership experience.
• Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) certification or ability to obtain.
• Familiarity with Alabama economic development incentives and federal aviation programs.
• Experience with general aviation or former military airfields.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep understanding of FAA, TSA, and environmental regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills.
• Ability to build strong partnerships with elected officials, businesses, and community organizations.
• Visionary yet practical approach to developing underutilized aviation and industrial assets.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Must successfully pass TSA-mandated security background check and obtain airport security identification.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and on-call for emergencies.
• Valid driver’s license with ability to operate vehicles on the airfield.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting Salary: $88,000 – $92,500, commensurate with experience.
• Competitive benefits package, annual bonuses, and performance-based pay increases.

The Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a historic aviation and industrial asset with tremendous growth potential and make a lasting impact on the economic future of Selma and West Central Alabama.

Accepting Resumes until 15 June. Interviews (in person and remotely) begin 15 June 2026.

Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and professional references to the following addresses:

contact@craigfieldairport.com

rider@craigfieldairport.com