Title
A Resolution confirming the Mayor’s appointment of Alexandru Kovacs as the Director of Aviation
Presenter:
Yemi Mobolade, Mayor of Colorado Springs
Body
Summary:
City Charter § 4-40(f)(5) and City Code § 1.2.201(B) provide that the Mayor shall appoint a Director of Aviation to serve at his pleasure, subject to confirmation by the concurring vote of a majority of the members of City Council. The duties of the Director of Aviation are outlined in City Code § 14.1.202, which includes the administration and operation of the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport Enterprise.
Background:
Former Colorado Springs Director of Aviation Greg Phillips retired effective February 7, 2025. Mayor Mobolade has selected Alexandru Kovacs as the next Director of Aviation for the Municipal Airport Enterprise. Mr. Kovacs has served as Acting Director of Aviation since February 2025 and previously served as Assistant Director of Aviation overseeing the Finance, Properties and Design and Construction teams at the Airport. Mr. Kovacs was selected as the Director of Aviation following a nationwide search from among 132 candidates.
Mr. Kovacs has 16 years of leadership in the aviation industry, with a strong background in financial strategy, operational oversight, and airport administration. During his tenure at the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, he held several key roles, including Director of Finance, where he was responsible for managing complex operating and capital budgets, leading risk management efforts, and supporting long-term funding strategies for major capital improvement programs. His financial guidance played a vital role in informing executive leadership and the Board of Trustees.
In addition to his financial expertise, Mr. Kovacs has led teams through organizational change, negotiated airline use and lease agreements, and implemented operational efficiencies aligned with both regulatory requirements and industry best practices. He is also recognized for his collaborative leadership style and his ability to drive performance management and strategic planning initiatives.
Mr. Kovacs holds a master’s degree in management and leadership from Western Governors University. He is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and a Certified Airport Executive with the Southwest Chapter of AAAE.
Previous Council Action:
N/A
Financial Implications:
If confirmed as Director of Aviation, Alexandru Kovacs’ initial salary will be set within the salary range for Director of Aviation established by City Ordinance No. 24-102, regarding the 2025 salary structure for civilian and sworn municipal employees.
City Council Appointed Board/Commission/Committee Recommendation:
None.
Stakeholder Process:
The in-person interview panel for the position included representatives from the Mayor’s Office, City Attorney’s Office, City Human Resources, and City Council. Members of City Council have been provided with additional opportunity to interview Alexandru Kovacs and have been provided with Kovac’s application and resumé.
Alternatives:
Do not approve the proposed resolution.
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Move for approval of the proposed resolution confirming appointment of Alexandru Kovacs as the Director of Aviation.
Summary of Ordinance Language
N/A