Why the CFO Role Matters

The Executive Search: CFO at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) comes at a pivotal moment for one of the fastest-growing airports in the Southeast. AVL has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years, becoming North Carolina’s third-largest airport and serving passengers across the region with nonstop connections nationwide.

To sustain this momentum, AVL is seeking a seasoned Chief Financial Officer who will guide financial operations and strategy during a period of major expansion. This leadership role will be central to ensuring fiscal responsibility, accountability, and vision as the airport navigates historic growth.

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AVLForward: A $400 Million Expansion

At the heart of AVL’s next chapter is AVLForward, a four-year, $400 million infrastructure program that will transform the airport’s terminal and operations. The project includes a 150% expansion of the terminal building, increasing from seven to twelve gates with capacity for future growth, as well as the construction of a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower.

This expansion is not just a construction project; it represents a long-term commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and passenger experience. For the incoming CFO, AVLForward offers both a challenge and an opportunity—to oversee the financial framework that will make this transformation possible.

The Role of CFO at AVL

The Chief Financial Officer will serve as a senior leader reporting directly to the President & CEO, with responsibility for shaping AVL’s financial strategy and maintaining fiscal stability. The CFO will oversee accounting, budgeting, audits, compliance, and reporting, while also ensuring alignment with AVL’s long-term goals.

This role requires balancing strategic planning with day-to-day oversight. The CFO will provide financial leadership during the AVLForward project, ensuring all funding streams and capital planning are managed responsibly. At the same time, they will be expected to work collaboratively across departments, building strong relationships with stakeholders and translating complex financial matters into actionable strategies.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will bring strong financial management experience, ideally in aviation, transportation, or public infrastructure. A deep understanding of budgeting, compliance, grants, and capital project financing is essential.

Beyond technical skills, AVL is seeking a strategic thinker with proven leadership abilities. The CFO should be a strong communicator, capable of engaging both financial and non-financial audiences, while also fostering a collaborative culture within the finance team and across the organization.

A Rare Career Opportunity

This is an exceptional moment to join AVL. The airport’s growth trajectory, combined with the transformational AVLForward program, creates a unique platform for the CFO to leave a lasting legacy. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the airport’s financial future, directly impacting its ability to serve the community and strengthen regional economic development.

How to Apply

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

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About Steven Baldwin Associates

Steven Baldwin Associates is a consulting firm dedicated exclusively to airport management. With decades of experience in governance, finance, operations, and executive recruitment, SBA is a trusted partner for airports across the United States. Their expertise ensures that leadership positions like this CFO search are filled with candidates who can guide airports through growth and transformation.

FAQs

1. What is the CFO’s primary responsibility at AVL?
The CFO will oversee AVL’s financial operations, including budgeting, compliance, audits, and long-term fiscal planning.

2. Why is this recruitment significant?
AVL is in the midst of AVLForward, a $400 million expansion project, requiring strong financial leadership.

3. What skills are required for the role?
Financial expertise, strategic planning, and leadership skills, ideally with experience in aviation or public infrastructure.

4. What makes AVL unique?
Asheville Regional Airport is the third-largest in North Carolina and is rapidly expanding to meet regional demand.

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 application details.

Conclusion

The Executive Search: CFO at Asheville Regional Airport offers a defining career opportunity for an experienced financial leader. With AVLForward reshaping the airport and its role in regional connectivity, the CFO will directly influence both the airport’s growth and its long-term economic impact.

For the right candidate, this is a rare chance to guide an airport during a moment of historic expansion and to help shape the future of aviation in Western North Carolina.