September 24, 2018
The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today unanimously selected Rusty Chandler to serve as interim CEO while the board searches for a replacement to Steve Grossman whose last day in the office is at the end of October.
Chandler is the Chief of Cecil Airport and general aviation, and is not seeking the job as permanent CEO. He joined JAA in 1998, after retiring from the U.S. Navy.
Grossman has served as CEO of the four-airport aviation system for the past nine years. He previously served as director of aviation at the Port of Oakland. During his tenure, JAA has experienced unprecedented passenger and revenue growth, and received top ratings for its customer satisfaction.
The JAA Board also selected new officers for the 2018-2019 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. Jacksonville businessman Jay Demetree was elected as Chairman. Russ Thomas, Availity CEO, will serve as Vice Chairman. Ray Alfred, president and CEO of Emergency Responders’ Industries Inc., will serve as Secretary. Frank Mackesy, University of North Florida’s Director of Public Safety and Security/Police Chief, was elected Treasurer.
