January 26th 2026 Ford International Airport Welcomes Carlos Ruiz as Chief Commercial Officer

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Jan. 26, 2026 - The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority
recently welcomed Carlos Ruiz as its new chief commercial officer to help elevate the guest experience and support the Airport's strategic goals.

In his new role, Ruiz will oversee the Airport's business and air service development, real estate, marketing and communications, contract and lease management, and aero/non-aeronautical revenue generation. With more than 15 years of industry experience, Ruiz's leadership role will focus on driving revenue growth and optimizing business operations while introducing new opportunities to enhance the travel experience.

"We are delighted to welcome Carlos Ruiz to the Airport Authority's leadership team," said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. "Carlos brings a strong track record and collaborative approach that will help foster innovation, strengthen partnerships and position the Airport for continued growth. We look forward to the perspective he will bring to support the Airport's mission."

Prior to his current role, Ruiz served as the Director of Commercial Management at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), responsible for a diverse commercial portfolio of over $90 million in annual revenue including parking, ground transportation, rental cars, concessions, and advertising. Ruiz oversaw the implementation of CVG's parking reservation and smart shuttle tracking technology, as well as the completion of major food and beverage concessions redevelopment.

"It's an honor and privilege to join the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority and serve a community with such strong momentum," said Ruiz. "I'm excited to help expand GRR's commercial opportunities in ways that elevate the guest experience and fuel regional economic development."

"GRR has a bold vision for the future, and I'm inspired by the Authority's commitment to innovation and collaboration," Ruiz continued. "I look forward to working alongside the dedicated team to build on the airport's incredible foundation and help deliver meaningful value to West Michigan."

Ruiz earned his bachelor's degree in aviation management from The Ohio State University and his master's degree in general management from Tiffin University. He is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) with the American Association of Airport Executives.

About the Gerald R. Ford International Airport

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is Michigan's second-busiest airport, serving more than four million passengers annually with eight commercial airline partners offering nonstop flights to over 35 destinations. Managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, the airport supports over 40,000 jobs in the region and contributes more than $7 billion to the local economy each year. For more information, visit flyford.org or follow the airport on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram @FlyGRFord.

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