Manager, Airline Relations

About San Diego International Airport

San Diego International Airport aims to deliver a remarkable experience to our local community and visitors worldwide, reflecting the lively and welcoming spirit of San Diego itself. Our core objectives include advancing airport development, enhancing the customer experience, optimizing business operations, and nurturing a positive organizational culture. Our workplace values collaboration, empathy, active listening, and thoughtful decision-making, creating an environment where employees contribute meaningfully and enjoy their work journey.

Why You'll Enjoy Working Here

• Work from the new Airport Authority Administration building with impressive views of the runway, San Diego Bay, Pacific Ocean, and city skyline.
• Follow a hybrid work schedule combining on-site days—aligned with department needs for collaboration—and remote work flexibility on other days.
• Competitive salary range from $109,210 to $191,119, with the hiring salary set between $150,165 and $160,677.
• Robust benefits including 14 paid holidays, generous vacation (18-33 days PTO), parental and child care benefits, salary continuance for family leave, tuition reimbursement, retirement plans, a comprehensive pension, and lifestyle spending account supporting personal growth.
• Wellness offerings such as multiple gyms with fitness classes, outdoor workspaces, fitness discounts, monthly fruit deliveries, volunteer rewards, financial wellness advisors, and access to local walking trails.

Position Summary

The Finance & Airline Relations department is seeking a Manager of Airline Relations to strengthen partnerships with airline stakeholders while supporting operational and financial objectives of the Airport Authority. This role leads a team tasked with airline asset management and agreement administration and acts as a primary liaison between the Airport Authority and its airline partners. The Manager works cross-functionally to ensure operational alignment with agreements and strategic priorities, especially preparing the organization for future airline lease negotiations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong, trusted partnerships with airline clients; represent the Airport Authority in meetings, advisory groups, and collaborative projects, ensuring operational and strategic alignment.
• Oversee airline asset management including space allocation, planning, and tenant improvement projects to coordinate airline facilities and airport development.
• Lead negotiation, development, and analysis of complex airline agreements and contracts ensuring they meet operational, financial, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide project and program leadership by defining goals, scopes, and timelines; monitor progress through reports and documentation to maintain accountability and deliver results on schedule and budget.
• Conduct financial and business analysis related to airline agreements and commercial programs, offering strategic recommendations for long-term success.
• Manage procurement processes and ensure compliance with lease terms and regulatory standards.

Required Skills and Attributes

• Leadership abilities that inspire and guide teams to achieve objectives, with strong communication and relationship management skills.
• Understanding of aviation regulations and experience in aviation-related revenue projects, asset management, property management, or airport operations.
• Proven relationship management skills across diverse cultures and organizational levels, focused on service delivery and positive customer experiences.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities with the ability to operate independently and navigate complex, matrixed organizations strategically.
• Competence in project management, accurately estimating scope, budget, and timelines.
• Effective communication and influencing skills to advocate ideas and build consensus with flexibility and assertiveness.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Team Environment

The Finance & Airline Relations team manages airline budgets, treasury functions, financial performance, and agreement administration. This role integrates finance expertise with collaborative engagement among airport tenants, fostering a professional yet friendly atmosphere valuing clear communication and data-driven decisions.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years’ experience in commercial business development, asset or property management, and/or airport management, including at least 3 years supervising management-level staff or equivalent experience.
• A bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year university in business, public administration, real estate, finance, architecture, construction management, or a related field.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and ability to maintain insurability under the Authority’s insurance policy.
• Successful completion of background checks and training required for access to Authority and San Diego County physical security and telecommunications equipment.

Preferred Credentials

• Certifications such as Accredited Airport Executive (AAE), Certified Member (CM), International Airport Professional (IAP), Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Juris Doctor (J.D.).

Additional Information

At San Diego International Airport, unique experiences and eagerness to grow are valued beyond formal qualifications. The organization provides equal employment opportunity regardless of age, color, national origin, disability, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any protected characteristic. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities. As public employees, staff may be assigned disaster service duties as required by law.