The Gainesville Regional Airport Partners with ADK to Recruit Chief Executive Officer
April 14, 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 Paul Mehrlich, A.A.E., IACE, as Chief Executive Officer of the Gainesville Regional Airport. In this role, Mr. Mehrlich will lead the management, operation, and development of the airport, reporting to the Gainesville-Alachua County Regional Airport Authority.
Mr. Mehrlich is a results-driven aviation executive with more than 15 years of progressive leadership in general aviation and Part 139 commercial operations. Most recently he was Executive Director of Aviation for Texarkana Regional Airport in Arkansas where he successfully led a $49M terminal construction project and a new 20-year master plan while positioning the airport for future expansion and innovation. Previously, he served as Environmental Operations Manager for Dallas Love Field, managing high-profile regulatory programs including noise abatement, wildlife hazard, and regulated international waste.
“I’m honored to be given the opportunity to lead Gainesville Regional Airport,” said Mr. Mehrlich. “GNV has accomplished a great deal in recent years, and I’m excited to continue that momentum alongside this talented and dedicated team. The commitment of our staff and the support of our community partners are what make this airport successful, and I look forward to building on that strong foundation together.”
Mr. Mehrlich received a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Professional Pilot from Utah Valley University and went on to earn his masters of business administration in Aviation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) of the American Association of Airport Executives.
