Airport Business Development Manager

Airport Business Development Manager

Purdue University

in West Lafayette, IN

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Type: Full-Time

Posted: 07/24/2025

Category: Economic and Business Development

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The Airport Business Development Manager is responsible for fostering strong community and stakeholder engagement of the Purdue University Airport and Amelia Earhart Terminal. This role is focused on building strategic relationships, promoting the airport as a vital regional asset, and integrating marketing campaigns that drive public support, increase ticket sales, and enhance the airport's profile.

This position reports to the Director of the Procurement and Travel Center and works closely with the Associate Vice President for Auxiliary Services. The role engages with University Travel and Airport Operations teams to ensure alignment with University Travel guidelines and federal regulations, collaborates with external partners such as Purdue Brand Studio (PBS), Purdue Research Foundation (PRF), Purdue for Life (PFL), and Student Life to support marketing efforts and ensure internal alignment, and partners with internal teams including AO Communications and AO Analytics and Information Management for communications and data/reporting needs. Additionally, the position coordinates with Procurement Services as needed for contracting and legal support.

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, public relations, aviation management, or a related field

Two (2) years of experience in marketing, business development, tourism or public engagement - experience in transportation, aviation, tourism or local government is a plus

Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and contribute to a small, hands-on team

Preferred:

Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement, public outreach or brand promotion.

Experience in a higher education or public-sector environment

Knowledge of:

airport operations or the aviation industry

public procurement processes and strategic sourcing practices

Skills Needed:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams

Organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously

Familiarity with CRM systems and standard business software (MS Office, Excel, etc.)

Must be able to work effectively in a team setting and represent Purdue in external professional settings

Passion for aviation, regional development, or public service

Experience working with community or tourism organizations

Familiarity with FAA, DOT, or state-level transportation grant programs is a plus

Additional Information:

Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position

A background check will be required for employment in this position

FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)

Retirement Eligibility: Immediate Defined Contribution by the university

Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Professional 4

Pay Band S080

Job Code #20003742

Career pathmaker:

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

EOE / AA

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer.

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer . All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

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