ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits CEO for Gainesville Regional Airport
April 27, 2026 – ADK Consulting & Executive Search has assisted in the recruitment of Paul Mehrlich as the new CEO of Gainesville Regional Airport. His appointment comes after a comprehensive nationwide search to replace outgoing CEO Allan J. Penksa, who has retired after 18 years in the role.
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 led a $49 million terminal construction project and a new 20-year master plan while positioning the airport for future expansion and innovation. Previously, Mr. Mehrlich served as environmental operations manager for Dallas Love Field, managing high-profile regulatory programs including noise abatement, wildlife hazard, and regulated international waste.
“I am honored to be named the next CEO of the Gainesville Regional Airport and to continue building on the proud legacy set by Allan Penksa,” said Mr. Mehrlich. “Having spent my career leading commercial service and general aviation airports through operational modernization, capital transformation and organizational growth, I recognize the magnitude of the many future opportunities before us in this exciting region, while acknowledging the momentum, dedication and focus that preceded it. GNV and North Central Florida present a dynamic and thriving area for me to continue in my quest to provide decisive leadership, strategic clarity, and further elevate this great regional airport into a thriving regional asset that connects its community to the rest of the globe. My family and I look forward to our life in Alachua County.”
Gainesville Regional Airport serves North Central Florida through all facets of aviation: commercial airlines, general aviation, military operations, medical missions and air cargo. The airport normally operates 16 daily departures on American Airlines and Delta Airways with nonstop service to the international hubs of Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas Fort Worth and Miami, providing access to 341 destinations around the world in one stop.
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Founded in 2003, Atlantic Beach, FL-based ADK specializes exclusively in talent searches for the airport management community. The firm is led by founder and president Doug Kuelpman, who has a history of over 40 years in aviation. ADK’s services include retained executive search, interim management, organizational consulting, and leadership development.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Search
ADK recently assisted in the recruitment of Carlos Ruiz as chief commercial officer of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority in Grand Rapids, MI. The search was led by Barry Bratton and Christine Santiago. In his new position, Mr. Ruiz will help elevate the guest experience and support the airport’s strategic goals. “We are delighted to welcome Carlos Ruiz to the Airport Authority’s leadership team,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Carlos brings a strong track record and collaborative approach that will help foster innovation, strengthen partnerships and position the airport for continued growth. We look forward to the perspective he will bring to support the airport’s mission.”
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Mr. Ruiz most recently served as the director of commercial management at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), responsible for a diverse commercial portfolio of over $90 million in annual revenue including parking, ground transportation, rental cars, concessions, and advertising. He oversaw the implementation of CVG’s parking reservation and smart shuttle tracking technology, as well as the completion of major food and beverage concessions redevelopment. Mr. Ruiz is an accredited airport executive (AAE) with the American Association of Airport Executives.
Related: ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits Executive Director for Lincoln Airport
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
