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.
Founded in 2003, ADK is a retained boutique executive recruitment firm specializing in C-Suite positions. Utilizing our talented team of 25 professionals with strong industry expertise, we connect outstanding leaders to opportunities.
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.
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 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 has helped to recruit Chris Wimsatt as the new CFO of the Port of Seattle. Rod Dinger led the assignment. “The Port of Seattle’s success as an economic engine and job creator is tied directly to our financial management,” said Port of Seattle executive director Steve Metruck. “Chris’s experience in aviation, general purpose
ADK Consulting & Executive Search has assisted in the recruitment of Taylor Casey as chief people officer of The Massachusetts Port Authority. The assignment was led by Gale LaRoche and Christine Santiago. In this position, Ms. Casey will report to the CEO, leading the Authority’s HR efforts, overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, DEI initiatives, workforce
ANNOUNCEMENT August 25, 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 Thane Seeley, C.M., as Deputy Executive Director for The Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority. In this role, he will provide operational leadership for Harrisburg International
ANNOUNCEMENT August 25, 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 Alexandra Orr as Compliance Director for SkyCity, a purpose-built consortium for the transformative U.S. Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) Airports. In this role, Ms. Orr
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 Brian Belcher, C.M., as the new Airport Director for Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW). In this role, he will oversee all aspects of airport operations, strategic planning, capital improvements, regulatory
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 Jack Christine, A.A.E., as Senior Vice President & Chief Development Officer for The Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. In this role, Mr. Christine will provide strategic leadership for planning, engineering, design,