General Counsel

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority manages and operates passenger-focused John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), cargo-focused Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), and general aviation airport Bolton Field (TZR).

We are a diverse group of committed and talented professionals who show up every day to take CRAA to new heights. Although our roles are as diverse as we are – from Custodial Services to Customer Service, from Accounting to Airport Police, from HVAC to Human Resources – we have one common goal: connect Ohio with the world.

Our organization is in constant motion, moving people and cargo 365 days a year. With our core values of Accountability, Innovation and Respect guiding us, we each do our part to contribute to our organization, the aviation industry, local businesses, and the economy. We create experiences for passengers, we create opportunities for businesses, and we create economic growth for Columbus.

Trust and respect are the foundation of our culture. We invite new ideas. We encourage innovation. We are inclusive and welcoming. We are empowered to enact positive change.

Your “Take Off” will be successful by doing the following with excellence:

• Provide legal advice to CRAA management and Board of Directors, including ensuring legal review of all contracts drafted pursuant to Board action and/or required to be signed by the President and CEO.
• Oversee compliance with local, state, and federal laws, regulations, guidelines and other obligations of CRAA, including those related to legislative funding grants or contracts.
• Oversee routine legal matters, represent the Authority before local, state, and federal agencies and courts as appropriate and manage outside counsel, including reviewing invoices, significant pleadings, and other documents.
• Act as liaison for the Board committees and provide legal counsel and briefings on matters related to liability and risk.
• Oversee budget preparation, monitoring and approval of purchased goods, services and staff travel for Legal Services department.
• Develop strategic plans based on CRAA’s priorities. Leverage industry expertise, best practices, and key business drivers in developing short and long-range plans and defining results. Maintain flexibility to adapt priorities based on changing business needs.
• Maintain positive relationships with Board of Directors. Effectively assist with preparing and presenting Board reports. Keep Board of Directors well informed to make the best decisions for the organization. Partner with the Board of Directors to develop or refine strategic direction & plan in a timely manner.
• Perform related work as required.

Your “Landing” will be smooth if you meet th e following requirements:

• Knowledge of, and ability to interpret and advise on, federal, state and local laws and regulations including, Ohio Revised Code relating to port authorities, government procurement, Ohio ethics and construction law, and the Americans with Disabilities Act as applicable to an airport environment

• Advanced interpersonal skills and ability to foster trusted relationships with key stakeholders

• Strong executive presence and business acumen and ability to set organizational strategy for long-term sustainment of the organization

• Graduate Degree Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school

• Minimum fifteen (15) years of experience as a practicing lawyer, preferably with a governmental or aviation-related entity and secondarily with a prominent regional or national law firm

• Previous leadership experience required

• Or equivalent education and years of experience

• Licensed to practice law in the State of Ohio or able to become licensed

• Able to pass a pre-employment drug test, which includes testing for medical marijuana (medical marijuana cards are not acceptable)

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or terms and conditions of employment because of an individual’s race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, and all other groups or classes protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. The Authority does not tolerate violence or drug use in the workplace.