Chief Executive Officer

Position Overview

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Airports will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the airports complete lifecycle, encompassing operations, development, and independent management. The role demands ensuring alignment with international aviation standards, regional regulations, and delivering a best-in-class passenger experience. The CEO will oversee financial management, tariff development, capital allocation, operational expenditures, and drive commercial success.

Key Responsibilities

Provide visionary leadership in airport development, master planning, and long-term infrastructure expansion aligned with international and regional benchmarks.

Oversee all airport operations, including passenger check-in, ticketing, baggage handling, retail, passenger lounges, ground handling, and ground operations services.

Engage with civil aviation authorities, regulatory bodies, and public stakeholders to ensure compliance and support strategic initiatives.

Lead development of aeronautical tariffs (e.g., UDF, capital charges), manage cost recovery models, and ensure transparent financial reporting.

Develop capital investment plans and coordinate funding efforts with investors, lenders, and public agencies to ensure financial viability and mitigate risks.

Ensure efficient, safe, and compliant operations through deployment of advanced systems (e.g., AODB, FIDS, BHS) and rigorous performance monitoring.

Implement cost optimization initiatives while maintaining service quality; benchmark OPEX against global KPIs and industry best practices.

Maximize non-aeronautical revenue streams via commercial partnerships in real estate, retail, parking, concessions, restaurants, and hotels.

Drive ESG and sustainability reporting aligned with global standards, ensuring compliance, transparency, and integration with business strategy.

Champion customer-centric innovations to elevate the passenger journey and enhance commercial outcomes.

Build and lead a high-performing executive leadership team; foster strategic partnerships and represent the organization at regional forums, conferences, and investor engagements.

Maintain regular communication with the Board of Directors and Group CEO to ensure governance, transparency, and strategic alignment.

Cultivate a customer-centric culture focused on passenger satisfaction and positive community relationships.

Develop and maintain crisis management, emergency response, and business continuity plans.

Negotiate contracts with airlines, concessionaires, and service providers to support airport operations and commercial goals.

Identify and oversee capital improvement projects including expansion, renovations, and technology upgrades.

Education & Experience

MBA or Masters degree in Infrastructure Finance, Operations, Strategic Management, or related fields preferred.

Minimum 20 years of work experience with at least 15 years in relevant management/leadership roles.

Experience working in the GCC region is an added advantage.

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

Deep understanding of airport economics, regulatory frameworks, and international aviation standards.

Strong financial expertise in capital planning, cost recovery, and tariff modeling.

Proficiency in advanced airport systems such as SAP, Airport Operational Database (AODB), Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS), and Baggage Handling Systems (BHS).

Strong data-driven decision-making capabilities.

Thorough knowledge of aviation laws, safety regulations (ICAO, FAA, IATA), and security standards (TSA, ECAC).

ERP knowledge, preferably SAP functional skills, required for successful role execution.