ADK Recruits Deputy Director, Operations, Customer Experience and Compliance for The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

September 29, 2026

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 Tom Carter as Deputy Director, Operations, Customer Experience and Compliance for The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. In this role, Mr. Carter will provide executive oversight of aviation operations, safety management systems, ARFF, emergency operations, airspace efficiency, and wildlife management.

Mr. Carter brings nearly 30 years of aviation leadership experience spanning airport security, operations, safety, regulatory compliance and emergency management. Most recently, he served as the Transportation Security Administration’s Federal Security Director for the State of New Jersey, where he led a workforce of more than 1,300 professionals supporting security operations across three airports and managed a budget exceeding $78 million. He previously held several senior leadership and security positions with TSA, including Deputy Federal Security Director; Assistant General Manager, Compliance; and Supervisory Transportation Security Inspector, and began his federal aviation career as a Special Agent with the FAA. Throughout his career, he has developed extensive expertise in airport security and safety, regulatory compliance, emergency and critical incident management, technology deployment, stakeholder relations and coordination with airports, airlines, law enforcement and government agencies.

“I am thrilled to be a part of The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and in particular, to be in the Aviation Department, where I can leverage my past experience and expertise in the field to promote and enhance safety and efficiency at some of the most important airport operations in the world,” said Mr. Carter. “The Port Authority of NY and NJ is on the cutting edge of the transportation and logistics industry and is engaged in highly innovative projects driven by super talented and skilled professionals.”

Mr. Carter earned a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Business Studies from St. Francis College. He went on to receive master’s degrees in Organizational Management and Business Administration from St. Joseph’s College. In addition, Mr. Carter is a private pilot.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey