The Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority is seeking a Senior Vice President & Chief Development Officer. The SVP provides strategic leadership for planning, engineering, design, construction and sustainability across Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s development portfolio. The position oversees: Capital Development and Delivery; Planning and Master Planning; Facilities and Asset Management; and Environmental and Sustainability Programs. The role ensures projects are delivered on time, on budget and in alignment with RDU’s long-term strategic vision.

We are seeking an executive who operates as a builder, enterprise leader and trusted partner.

• Proven program leadership: Experience leading large-scale capital programs ($1B+), managing complexity across multiple interdependent projects.
• Private-sector mindset: Brings urgency, accountability and a bias toward execution and results.
• Enterprise perspective: Connects development to strategy, operations, finance and long-term growth.
• Leadership style: Proactive, collaborative and aligned—drives outcomes while building trust across stakeholders.
• Executive presence: Communicates clearly, makes decisions in complex environments and serves as a credible advisor to the CEO and Board.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, transportation, planning, or a closely related field; Master’s degree preferred.
  A minimum of 15 years of executive level (C-Suite) work experience leading capital development programs that involve complex and interrelated planning, environmental, design and construction related efforts at a small-hub or larger commercial service airport.
  Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) or professional designation from the Airports Council International preferred.
  Professional Architect, Engineer, or Planner license/certification preferred.

Salary & Benefits

The hiring range for this position is estimated at over $325,000, with final compensation based on experience and credentials. The Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority offers a comprehensive benefits package. For instructions on how to apply, please click here to see the recruitment brochure or visit the searches tab at www.adkexecutivesearch.com.

Filing Deadline: May 24, 2026