Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport in Oscoda, Michigan (OWA) is seeking an energetic, highly motivated, and entrepreneurial executive to lead an award-winning regional airport operation. The new Airport Director/Manager (ADM) should be a skilled manager with proven business and financial acumen including expertise in airport operations. The Oscoda Wurtsmith Airport Authority (OWAA) Board of Trustees is the governing body for OWA. It is an inter-governmental cooperative between the townships of AuSable, Greenbush and Oscoda, and the counties of Alcona and Iosco. The board is comprised of seven members including elected officials from each township, a representative of each county and two at-large members chosen by the five authority members.

The Board is eager to work with the new ADM in actively seeking and securing opportunities for growth and expansion of the economic engine that OWAA represents including a pending spaceport horizontal launch project. At the same time maintenance of critical aviation infrastructure and continued fiscal stability are key priorities. The ADM is responsible for providing executive leadership in the planning, coordinating, and supervising of OWA operations and works through the direction of the OWAA board. The ADM promotes efficient administration, oversees and manages day to day functions and serves as a liaison between the Board and various municipalities and agencies.

Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport is located within the Northeast Lower Peninsula of Michigan where the internationally renowned Au Sable River meets with the pristine shores of Lake Huron. The “Sunrise Side” region of Michigan is known for abundant recreational opportunities and bountiful natural resources including numerous inland lakes and the Huron National Forest. Residents of the region have the rare opportunity to live and work where others come to vacation in a relaxed and attractive setting.

OWA is a General Aviation airport that operates on a 24/7 schedule with an annual budget of $1.1 million. According to FAA Terminal Area Forecasts, OWA is estimated to average approximately 5,707 flight operations per year. OWA comprises approximately 2200 acres with a major asset being an 11,800-foot lighted precision instrument runway with a gross weight bearing strength of 550,000 pounds. OWA staffing includes an Airport Director, 7 fulltime employees, contracted accounting services and seasonal employment as needed.

OWA generates significant positive impact for the Northeast Michigan economy. The airport is host to 32 tenants that occupy 90 properties including a major large category aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) repair station. Recent estimates indicate businesses on these properties employ about 1,600 persons and generate an annual payroll of approximately $80 million. The direct and indirect beneficial economic effects of OWA and its business partner operations are dramatic and far-reaching.

The successful candidate is required to have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Airport Administration, Public Administration, Business Administration, or closely related field; a master’s degree in a relevant field is valued.
• Five or more years of leadership and management experience in a governmental, quasi-governmental or related business/field; experience in growing and effectively leading airport operations is highly desirable.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and significant career success in building strong collaborative relationships with critical stakeholders; including board members, municipal officials, staff, tenants, regulatory and funding agency personnel, and the public.
• Proven leadership, managerial, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated trustworthiness and the ability to exercise discretion and integrity.
• Excellent financial, analytical, and budget management skills to lead a financially fit organization.
• Michigan Aeronautics Commission certification and license to act as an Airport Manager within the State of Michigan, or ability to obtain said certification within six months or as otherwise determined by the Board of Trustees. Certification from the American Association of Airport Executives as a Certified Member (C.M.) and Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) is a plus.
• Possession of a valid Driver’s License.

The ideal candidate will be:

• Skilled in economic development, marketing, capital improvement and strategic planning, grantsmanship and project management.
• Willing to work very independently with focus, commitment, and vision.
• Politically astute, diplomatic, and situationally aware.
• Motivated, enthusiastic, personable, energetic and action oriented.
• Knowledgeable of the principles and practices of advanced Airport Administration, including policies, processes, procedures and applicable state and federal regulations.
• An effective advocate for OWA with substantial negotiation expertise.
• Familiar with spaceport horizontal launch facility requirements and operations.

Salary is $75,000 – $95,000 dependent on qualifications and experience (DOQE). OWA offers a comprehensive benefit package. Apply online at www.govHRJobs.com with résumé, cover letter, and contact information for five professional references by September 13, 2021. For inquiries contact, Robert Stalker, Vice President, GovHRUSA, rstalker@govhrusa.com, 847-380-3240 x142. Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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