Successful Executive Searches at SAV

Steven Baldwin Associates (SBA) is pleased to announce the successful completion of two national recruitments for Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) in Georgia. Beginning December 1, 2021, Shawn Schroeder will assume the role of Director of Planning and Facilities, and Richard “Ricky” Rushing III will step into the role of Director of Operations.

These appointments mark an important step in strengthening SAV’s leadership team as the airport continues its growth trajectory.

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Shawn Schroeder: Director of Planning and Facilities

Mr. Schroeder brings more than 30 years of aviation leadership experience. He most recently served as Assistant Airport Director at Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (TX).

Throughout his career, Schroeder has built expertise in strategic planning, operations, facilities management, leadership, and community engagement. He has also held leadership roles in AAAE and the Transportation Research Board.

He holds a Master’s in Public Affairs from the University of Missouri at Columbia and is both an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) and an International Airport Professional (I.A.P.).

Reflecting on his recruitment experience, Schroeder said: “SBA has been amazing throughout the entire process; I have never met such a professional and dedicated recruitment team. I couldn’t recommend SBA more highly.”

Richard “Ricky” Rushing III: Director of Operations

Mr. Rushing joins SAV with nearly 15 years of aviation industry experience, most recently as Director of Operations at Fort Smith Regional Airport (AR). Prior to that, he was Operations Manager at Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (MS).

Rushing holds a Master of Science in Aviation Administration from Middle Tennessee State University and is a Certified Member of AAAE. His additional certifications include Airport Security Coordinator, Wildlife Techniques, Advanced Airport Safety, and training in incident response to terrorist bombings.

He expressed excitement about the new role, sharing that he looks forward to working closely with SAV’s operations staff and airport community.

Welcome from Airport Leadership

Gregory B. Kelly, Executive Director of SAV, stated: “We are looking forward to having Shawn and Ricky join our senior management team. They both bring exceptional qualities to their respective positions, and we look forward to reaching our next levels of achievement with them on board.”

Mr. Kelly also commended SBA’s work: “We appreciate the great job that SBA did, and Vice President Penny Perkins in particular, in bringing so many qualified candidates to us for consideration.”

About Steven Baldwin Associates

Steven Baldwin Associates is dedicated exclusively to airport management consulting. With decades of hands-on experience, SBA provides services in governance, executive recruitment, organizational assessments, and strategic planning. The firm has successfully guided airports of all sizes across the United States.

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FAQs

1. Who were appointed at SAV in October 2021?
Shawn Schroeder as Director of Planning and Facilities, and Richard Rushing as Director of Operations.

2. What is Shawn Schroeder’s background?
Over 30 years in aviation, with leadership roles in strategic planning, operations, and industry organizations.

3. What is Richard Rushing’s background?
15 years in airport operations, with leadership at Fort Smith Regional and Gulfport-Biloxi International Airports.

4. What degrees do the new appointees hold?
Schroeder: Master’s in Public Affairs; Rushing: Master of Science in Aviation Administration.

5. How did SAV’s leadership respond to the appointments?
Executive Director Gregory B. Kelly welcomed both leaders, praising their expertise and SBA’s recruitment process.

6. What role did SBA play?
SBA conducted the national searches and facilitated the successful recruitment of both directors.

Conclusion

The appointment of two new directors at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport underscores Steven Baldwin Associates’ expertise in executive recruitment for airports nationwide. With Shawn Schroeder and Richard Rushing joining the senior management team, SAV is well-positioned to continue its growth and deliver exceptional service to the community.