ADK Completes Airport Operations Director – Regulatory Compliance Recruitment for The City of Charlotte

October 21, 2025

ADK Consulting & Executive Search, a retained recruitment firm known for its expertise in senior executive searches in the aviation industry, announced the successful placement of Joseph Conklin, A.A.E., as Airport Operations Director – Regulatory Compliance for the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). Mr. Conklin will provide strategic oversight for regulatory compliance across airside and security operations. He will also oversee the contractual partnership with the Charlotte Fire Department to ensure the effective delivery of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) services at the airport.

Mr. Conklin brings 17 years of airport operations experience, most recently working as a Senior Manager for the Sacramento County Department of Airports, where he’s led teams responsible for commercial service, airside, security, communications center, access control, airfield maintenance, landside, ground transportation, parking, and general aviation operations. Mr. Conklin also served 30 years in the U.S. Air Force, comprising of 13 years of active duty and 17 years in the reserves. 

Mr. Conklin holds a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics, a master’s degree in aeronautical science, operations and management and a master’s degree in business administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He went on to receive his master’s degree in organizational leadership from the University of Massachusetts. He is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) of the American Association of Airport Executives.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport