Airport Experience® News - Leadership Issue 2024

20 24

DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR MEDIUM-HUB AIRPORTS

Jesu Sa A “TEAM FIRST” LEADER Colleagues Say Saenz Focuses On “We,” Not “I” BY SARAH BELING Jesus Saenz takes a collaborative approach to running San Antonio International Airport. His industry peers and city colleagues are uniformly impressed by his industry knowledge, collaborative approach and his “very big brain.” Here’s what a few individuals had to say: JENNA SAUCEDO HERRERA, President and CEO, greater: SATX Regional Economic Partnership Jesus Saenz being named Airport Director of the Year is a recognition that is truly well deserved. His exceptional leadership is the reason why the San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has achieved record breaking passenger traffic for 17 consecutive months and is now more connected than ever. Under his leadership, SAT has become a catalyst for San Antonio’s economic growth and development. As a partner, Jesus has been invaluable. Working closely with our organization and regional allies, he has ensured that SAT’s growth supports our broader economic goals. He understands the airport’s essential role in driving local business retention and growth, supporting job creation, and attracting new investment. Each new route and expanded service represents another opportunity for San Antonio to strengthen our economy and enhance the region’s global presence. With Jesus leading the team at SAT, it has become one of our region’s most important assets—a gateway that connects San Antonio to the world and brings the world to San Antonio. PERRY MILLER, President and CEO, Richmond International Airport (RIC) I’ve known Jesus for 20 years. We met while both employed at the Houston Airports System as the equivalent of assistant managers. When I was moved to be the general manager of Hobby, Jesus helped integrate the development of international operations and facilities there, so we know each other well and know each others’ families. Our working relationship has been very collaborative, and we have reached out to each other over the years to help each other solve problems. Jesus is an innovative leader who concerns himself with the well being of everyone who works with him. In fact, I’ve never heard him say, ‘This is someone who works for me,’ — he says, ‘This is a member of my team.’ He knows that every effort isn’t achieved without the collaborative effort of the whole team. TODD HAUPTLI, President and CEO , American Association of Airport Executives Jesus has this rare combination of analytical skills and heart. He’s great at solving complex problems. He leans into technology and innovation, and he has emotional intelligence. His people really love him. He cares a lot about the people that he works with. I would say this, if there’s a thorny problem to solve, I want him in the room working on it. He’s got a ton of great experience and a very big brain.

28

AX NEWS DECEMBER 2024 / JANUARY 2025