Why This VP Search Matters

The Executive Search: VP Air Service & Communications at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) comes at a transformative time for one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing airports. Ranked as North Carolina’s third-largest airport, AVL continues to expand its service offerings, with six airlines providing nonstop access to 27 destinations.

As AVL advances through an ambitious period of growth, the airport is seeking a Vice President of Air Service Development and Corporate Communications to lead key initiatives in airline partnerships, marketing, brand development, and passenger engagement. This role will help ensure that AVL continues to grow its connectivity while maintaining its strong reputation in the community and industry.

👉 Learn more about Asheville Regional Airport

AVLForward: A $400 Million Expansion

AVL is in the midst of AVLForward, a four-year, $400 million infrastructure program that will reshape the airport. The initiative includes a 150% expansion of the terminal building, increasing the number of gates from seven to twelve, along with the construction of a modern air traffic control tower.

This investment positions AVL to meet the demands of future growth. For the incoming VP, AVLForward provides a unique opportunity to help expand air service offerings and build a communications strategy that connects the airport’s vision with its passengers and stakeholders.

The Role of VP Air Service and Communications

The Vice President of Air Service Development and Corporate Communications will serve as a senior leader within AVL’s executive team. This individual will guide airline service development, strengthen corporate branding, oversee marketing and public relations, and enhance the passenger experience through strategic communications.

The VP will be responsible for growing AVL’s air service by building strong relationships with airlines, identifying opportunities for new routes, and negotiating expanded service offerings. Equally important will be advancing AVL’s public image through branding, marketing campaigns, and guest services. By overseeing multiple departments, the VP will ensure AVL’s messaging, partnerships, and passenger experience align with the airport’s growth strategy.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in air service development, communications, and marketing leadership. Previous experience in aviation or a related industry is highly desirable.

Success in this role will require strategic thinking, strong business development acumen, and the ability to cultivate airline partnerships. The VP must also be an excellent communicator, capable of building consensus among stakeholders, leading high-performing teams, and advancing AVL’s position as a competitive and community-focused airport.

A Unique Career Opportunity

This is an exceptional moment to join AVL’s leadership team. With the AVLForward expansion underway, the new VP will play a central role in shaping the airport’s connectivity and public image for years to come. The role offers the chance to influence airline partnerships, elevate AVL’s communications strategy, and contribute directly to regional economic development.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates are encouraged to review the official VP Candidate Brochure. For confidential inquiries or to express interest, please contact Lisa Belt, Senior Associate at Steven Baldwin Associates, at lbelt@baldwinllc.com.

👉 Learn more about Steven Baldwin Associates

About Steven Baldwin Associates

Steven Baldwin Associates is a consulting firm dedicated exclusively to airports. With decades of experience in governance, finance, operations, and executive recruitment, SBA is a trusted advisor to airports nationwide. By combining industry knowledge with recruitment expertise, SBA helps airports identify leaders who can successfully navigate growth and change.

FAQs

1. What is the VP of Air Service and Communications responsible for?
The VP will lead airline development, branding, marketing, communications, and guest services at AVL.

2. Why is AVL hiring this role now?
The airport is undergoing a $400 million expansion and requires senior leadership to grow air service and strengthen communications.

3. What qualifications are needed for the role?
Experience in air service development, communications, and marketing, preferably in aviation or transportation.

4. What makes AVL unique?
AVL is North Carolina’s third-largest airport, serving 27 nonstop destinations and growing rapidly through AVLForward.

5. Who is managing the search?
Steven Baldwin Associates, a firm specializing in airport management consulting and executive recruitment.

6. How can candidates apply?
By reviewing the candidate brochure and contacting Lisa Belt at SBA for details.

Conclusion

The Executive Search: VP Air Service & Communications at Asheville Regional Airport offers an exciting opportunity for a proven leader to join AVL during a time of historic transformation. With AVLForward reshaping the airport’s capacity and capabilities, the VP will help expand airline partnerships, build a stronger public presence, and enhance the overall passenger experience.

This role is more than a job—it’s a chance to directly influence the future of air service and communications in one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding airports in the Southeast.