Thursday, February 12, 2009

Long Beach Airport gets new Director

City Manager Patrick West has named Mario Rodriguez, an aviation expert with 20 years experience in the private and public sectors, as Director of Long Beach Airport. Mr. Rodriguez will start on February 23, 2009.

Mr. Rodriguez will oversee a staff of approximately 125 and an annual operating budget of approximately $28 million. Reporting to Mr. West, Mr. Rodriguez's responsibilities include airport operations, finances and leases, the Airport Noise Ordinance, community outreach and environmental matters."Mr. Rodriguez’s exemplary background in the private and public sector provides him with a unique understanding of the industry, which will be an asset to the Long Beach community as he faces many significant challenges in his new role," Mr. West said. “We conducted a rigorous national recruitment and Mario stood out with the interview panel, which included several community members. Simply put, we are very excited to have Mario join our team.”Mr. Rodriguez was most recently Deputy Director at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, where he was responsible for a staff of 186 and a $25 million annual operating budget. In addition, he oversaw the Airport’s Sound Insulation, Land Acquisition Programs and all aircraft noise monitoring activity.

Mr. Rodriguez’s leadership enabled the rapid recovery of Armstrong International Airport after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Two years later, he was recognized for his expertise in environmental management and awarded the prestigious Environmental Achievement Award from Airport Council International. "Mario's background will be very helpful with on-going airfield improvements projects, as well as the proposed new parking structure and terminal improvements,” said Acting Airport Director Chris Kunze. “Also, his proven track record of working closely with communities put him at the top of the list of candidates.” Prior to coming to Armstrong International, Mr. Rodriguez was tasked with the planning and execution of the Palm Beach County Department of Airports Capital Improvements Program. The Department operates Palm Beach International Airport, two large general aviation airports, and one small training GA airport.

In the private sector Mr. Rodriguez has worked for several multi-national consulting firms and was associated with the execution of airport master plans, design of airside and landside facilities, and construction administration. Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach International Airports were among some of the airports that he has served. “I am very honored to be chosen for this position, and look forward to working for a City that values innovation, fiscal responsibility, environmental sustainability, neighborhood relations and customer service,” Mr. Rodriguez said.Mr. Rodriquez earned a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from University of Miami in 1987. He sits on several boards and is an accomplished author and speaker on issues affecting the aviation industry, including Business Recovery and Disaster Management.

(Press Release - City of Long Beach)

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