Chief Financial Officer

Overview

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team and reports directly to the CEO/Airport Director. This full-time, on-site executive position is responsible for the strategic and operational management of all financial activities of the Columbus Airport Commission.

The CFO provides executive leadership in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, accounting, procurement, treasury management, payroll, financial reporting, capital financing, grant administration, and risk management. The position works closely with the Airport Commission, executive leadership, government agencies, airlines, tenants, financial institutions, auditors, and community stakeholders to ensure the airport remains financially strong while supporting long-term capital investment and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Leadership
• Financial Planning and Analysis
• Revenue and Cost Management
• Oversee airport revenue programs including Capital and Infrastructure Financing
• Financial Compliance
• Risk Management and Internal Controls
• Stakeholder and Commission Relations
• Team Leadership

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field required.
• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration (MPA), Finance, Accounting, or related discipline preferred.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or equivalent professional certification strongly preferred.
• Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) designation through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) is preferred. Candidates without the designation who possess significant aviation leadership experience and are willing to pursue the credential may also be considered.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible financial leadership experience.
• Demonstrated success leading budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and strategic financial planning.
• Experience managing large operating budgets and capital improvement programs.
• Experience in the aviation industry, airport finance, transportation, or other public-sector enterprise operations is preferred.
• Experience with public finance, governmental accounting, grant administration, FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding, enterprise funds, or bond financing is highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of airport economics and aviation revenue structures.
• Knowledge of airport rates and charges, FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, and airport financial management principles is preferred.
• Expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, analysis, and reporting.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing capital improvement programs and funding strategies.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate complex financial information effectively to executive leadership, governing boards, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and external stakeholders.
• Exceptional leadership, collaboration, organizational, and decision-making abilities.
• High ethical standards, integrity, and commitment to public accountability.