The Miami-Dade Aviation Department encompasses Miami International Airport (MIA), the County’s General Aviation Airports (GAAs), and one training airport. MIA serves as a premier global gateway, ranking among the busiest airports in the United States, with approximately 55 million passengers annually and one of the highest volumes of international travelers nationwide. As a major economic driver for Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida, MIA generates an estimated $32 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 275,000 direct and indirect jobs. Furthermore, MIA is a top international cargo hub, with trade volumes exceeding $73 billion annually, underscoring its vital role in global commerce and supply chain connectivity.
To sustain this dynamic, globally significant system, MDAD is seeking a highly experienced leader for the Associate Aviation Director, Governmental Affairs. This executive position leads the Office of Governmental Affairs, overseeing the development, implementation, and advancement of the department’s legislative and regulatory priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. The incumbent coordinates, analyzes, and disseminates complex information on airport operations, infrastructure development, and regulatory matters to inform policy decisions in partnership with the County Mayor, the Board of County Commissioners, and the Aviation Director. The position also shapes departmental policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives to drive improvement and expansion across the County’s Aviation System.
Responsibilities include developing and reviewing all departmental legislative initiatives submitted to the County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners, and representing the department at Commission and Committee meetings, briefings, and other forums. The incumbent establishes and advances MDAD’s annual state and federal legislative agenda, proactively monitors proposed legislation and regulatory actions, and protects and promotes the interests of the airport system.
The Associate Aviation Director, Governmental Affairs, collaborates closely with state and federal agencies, promoting grant strategies to secure funding for aviation projects and ensuring compliance with federal requirements for efficient movement of international passengers and cargo. The role manages complex stakeholder relationships at the regional and national levels and works extensively with federal agency leadership (FAA, TSA, Customs and Border Protection), the South Florida Congressional Delegation, and local civic, business, and aviation organizations to advance MDAD’s priorities and secure funding. Additionally, the incumbent liaises with Airports Council International, the American Association of Airport Executives, and serves in a leadership capacity with the Florida Airports Council, representing the interests of Florida’s commercial service and general aviation airports in statewide aviation policy discussions.
This position requires significant experience in legislative affairs, lobbying, or government relations; deep expertise in aviation policy; political acumen; strong relationship-building abilities; skillful navigation of legislative and regulatory environments; and outstanding leadership and communication skills. The Associate Aviation Director, Governmental Affairs, plays a pivotal role in ensuring MDAD maintains a strong presence in legislative and regulatory arenas, supporting the continued growth, operational excellence, and global competitiveness of one of the nation’s premier airport systems.
