The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority Announces Rick Francis as Vice President of Operations/Chief Operating Officer

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has named Rick Francis as Vice President of Operations/Chief Operating Officer. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, Mr. Francis will direct the day-to-day operations of San Diego County Regional Airport (SAN), including airfield and landside, airport security, public safety, facility management and ground transportation. Mr. Francis began his new position on December 12, 2022.

An accomplished public service executive, Mr. Francis has a strong background with county departments, cities and special districts with diverse knowledge of municipal government and airport operations. Most recently he was Assistant Airport Director for John Wayne Airport and served as Interim Airport Director. Mr. Francis has also worked for the City of Costa Mesa as Assistant City Manager and the County of Orange as Chief of Staff.

“I'm excited to join SAN to become part of a forward-thinking organization that is making great strides in bringing excellence to the passenger experience,” said Mr. Francis. “The ongoing Airport Development Program is posturing SAN to be the premier gateway for world travel, and I am eager to get involved with those efforts. I look forward to working with a seasoned group of airport executives and a dedicated team of aviation professionals.”

Mr. Francis earned his bachelor’s degree in Religion – Educational Administration from Vanguard University of Southern California. He went on to receive his master’s degree in Public Administration – Organizational Management from American Public University.