Airport Experience® News - Leadership Issue 2024

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12 Director Of The Year – Large-Hub Airports

Nashville International Airport’s Doug Kreulen has won the honor of Director of the Year in the large airports category. His guidance of BNA’s expansion has the industry buzzing, and there’s more to come as BNA continues its rapid growth. 18 Kudos For Kreulen Doug Kreulen is praised for his vision for the future of BNA and his adroit but humble leadership. On top of that, colleagues say he’s an all-around nice guy. 20 Director Of The Year – Medium-Hub Airports Jesus Saenz is leading San Antonio International through a major expansion and renovation. He draws on a family-wide commitment to servant-leadership as he navigates the airport’s next phase. 28 Saenz In The Spotlight It often takes a “very big brain” to effectively run an airport, and colleagues say Saenz is in possession of one. He also is praised for his collaborative approach and industry knowledge. 30 Director Of The Year – Small-Hub Airports Kelly Campbell of Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport may be leading a small airport, but she’s wowed the North American aviation community with her commitment to the broader industry. She’s also ushered LBB into a new phase of growth. 36 Campbell’s Impact Kelly Campbell is described as a “numbers whiz” and a “great ambassador” in her role at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport, and she’s highly touted for her board leadership at the American Association of Airport Executives during the tumultuous pandemic.

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38 Parting Ways Airport director retirements seem to be coming fast and furious. Eight who are departing their airport leadership roles share their successes and challenges, their succession strategies and their future plans. 44 Mentoring Moments The industry is abuzz with the importance of mentorship as airports and companies try to build and retain talent. Hear what several executives have to say about the process. 48 On Board Airports Council International – North America has opened its board to young professionals, who are non-voting but otherwise get a first hand look at how the trade group operates. The first three to win coveted board slots are eager to begin learning the ropes..

4 Letter From The Publisher 10 Data Check

Airport concessions sales leaders and per passenger sales leaders are identified in new data from the AX Fact Book, which was released in November.

51 Advertising Index 52 Before You Take Off

Syracuse Hancock International Airport tapped local university students to design its pre-security lobby. The results have won high praise.

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AX NEWS DECEMBER 2024 / JANUARY 2025