ADK Consulting & Executive Search

About Us

Founded in 2003, ADK is a retained boutique executive search firm specializing in C-Suite and senior leadership placements. While rooted in the airport and aviation industry, our reputation for results has fueled growth across broader transportation sectors. With a 27-member team deeply embedded in the field, ADK is the largest executive recruitment firm in the U.S. for airport leadership, based on the number of C-1 and C-Suite placements.

Our proven process blends research, marketing, outreach, and rigorous screening—led by an experienced team that partners with clients from start to finish. Over 83% of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals, including both placed and finalist candidates who appreciate our transparency and professionalism.

Beyond executive search, ADK offers organizational assessments, helping clients strengthen leadership strategies and workforce planning. Our placements have shaped organizations, enhanced communities, and in some cases, influenced national policy.

ADK is proud to be recognized in Hunt Scanlon’s 2025 Select Guide to America’s Top 250 Executive Search Firms. Today, we remain a trusted advisor to airports, municipalities, authorities, private companies, special districts, associations, and educational institutions across the country.

Achievements

Recent Placements

ADK Consulting & Executive Search

Solutions And Expertise

Our Initial Focus in Aviation / Aerospace – ADK has become the largest executive recruitment firm in the Unites States for the airport industry, filling more CEO and C-Suite positions than any other recruitment firm with well over 600 CEO and C-Suite airport recruitments, as well as organizational development and airport compensation studies.

Our Expansion into Other Industries – ADK has expanded to fill senior leadership positions in multiple industries for both Private and Public Sectors ranging from small private companies to Fortune 100 companies in the U.S., Canada, Turks & Caicos and large international companies with presence in the United States.

Solutions
  • Consulting Services
  • Executive Search
  • Interim
  • Succession Planning
Industries
  • Aircraft MRO
  • Aviation/Aerospace
  • Colleges/Universities
  • Government
  • Legal
  • Parking & Mobility
  • Ports
  • Real Estate
  • Technology
  • Trade Associations
  • Transportation Related Industries
Functions
  • All Senior Level Functions
  • Aviation Fleet Management
  • Business Development
  • CEO/President
  • CFO
  • Communications/PR
  • COO
  • Finance
  • General Management
  • Government
  • Human Resources
  • Information/Digital
  • Legal/Compliance
  • Management/Staff
  • Marketing & Sales
  • Operations

ADK Consulting & Executive Search

News Briefings

ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits CEO for Gainesville Regional Airport

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

ADK Consulting & Executive Search Seeking New CEO for the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

ADK Consulting & Executive Search has been retained by the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. Rod Dinger is leading the assignment. RTAA seeks an innovative, forward-thinking president and CEO who will be a champion for growth and development of the region, Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Reno-Stead

ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits Chief Commercial Officer for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority

ADK Consulting & Executive Search has 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

ADK Consulting & Executive Search Recruits Executive Director for Lincoln Airport

ADK Consulting & Executive Search has helped to recruit Anthony Dudas as executive director for Lincoln Airport (LNK). He will assume his new role at the start of the new year. Rod Dinger and Kim Kenville led the assignment. “The Lincoln Airport Authority board is pleased to welcome Anthony Dudas as our new executive director,” said Chris

ADK Consulting & Executive Search

Press Releases

The Cheyenne Regional Airport Board Partners with ADK to Recruit Director of Aviation

ANNOUNCEMENT | May 5, 2026 ADK Consulting & Executive Search, a retained recruitment firm known for its expertise in senior executive searches in the aviation industry, partnered with The Cheyenne Regional Airport Board to recruit William “Doug” Bullock, A.A.E., as Director of Aviation. In this role, Mr. Bullock will be responsible for the oversight and

The Gainesville Regional Airport Partners with ADK to Recruit Chief Executive Officer

April 14, 2026 –  The Gainesville Regional Airport Partners with ADK to Recruit Chief Executive Officer 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.

ADK Partners with San Diego County Regional Airport Authority to Recruit VP & Chief Operations Officer

April 1, 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 Brendan Reed as Vice President & Chief Operations Officer. In this role, Mr. Reed will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for terminal and

The City of Charlotte Partners with ADK to Recruit Chief Operating Officer

March 25, 2026 The City of Charlotte Partners with ADK to Recruit Chief Operating Officer 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 Jeffrey Perry as Chief Operating Officer. In this role, Mr. Perry will provide executive

ADK Consulting & Executive Search

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