Albany County Airport Authority Selects Stephen Clark as Next CEO

Veteran aviation executive to lead Albany International Airport following nationwide search

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALBANY, N.Y. – The Albany County Airport Authority (ACAA) has selected veteran aviation executive Stephen Clark as its next Chief Executive Officer, ushering in a new chapter for Albany International Airport (ALB) following a nationwide search that began last fall.

Clark has spent nearly 20 years building a career across multiple areas of the aviation industry, from airline and airport operations to commercial development, real estate, communications and air service. He currently serves as Deputy Director of Commercial Development for the Sacramento County Department of Airports, helping guide the business and growth strategy of a four-airport system that serves more than 13 million passengers each year.

His appointment follows an extensive national search led by DSG Global, an executive search firm specializing in the aviation industry. The Albany County Airport Authority retained the firm in August 2025 to identify the airport's next chief executive.

"Stephen brings an outstanding combination of aviation experience, strategic vision and proven leadership," said Sam Fresina, Chair of the Albany County Airport Authority Board of Directors. "Throughout the search process, it became clear that he understands the evolving role airports play in driving economic growth, enhancing the passenger experience and serving their communities. We are confident he is the right leader to build on the tremendous momentum at Albany International Airport and guide the organization into its next chapter."

As Deputy Director of Commercial Development in Sacramento, Clark has overseen airline affairs, commercial real estate, concessions, marketing, communications and air service development. Throughout his career, he has helped secure more than two dozen new airline routes, negotiated significant aviation infrastructure investments and led commercial initiatives that have strengthened airports as economic engines for their communities. He also serves on the board of the California Capital Airshow, where he provides the airshow community with the perspective of an airport owner and operator.

A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Clark began his career shortly after high school as a baggage handler and ramp agent. That early experience on the front lines of airport operations helped launch a nearly 20-year career spanning airlines, airports and aviation leadership.

“Albany International Airport is one of the Capital Region’s most important public assets, and I am deeply honored to lead it at this pivotal moment,” Clark said. My commitment is to build on its legacy with ambition, discipline and a clear vision for an airport that reflects the strength and potential of the region it serves.”

Prior to joining Sacramento County in 2021, Clark held several leadership positions at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan, advancing from Business Development Manager to Director of Commercial Development. Earlier in his career, he gained experience across airline and aviation operations through positions with Immaculate Flight, Delta Air Lines, SkyWest Airlines, Spokane Airways and Horizon Air.

County leaders also welcomed Clark's appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to lead Albany International Airport into its next chapter.

"Congratulations to the Albany County Airport Authority Board of Directors for the successful conclusion of their CEO search process and the selection of Stephen Clark as the next CEO,” said Joanne Cunningham, Chairwoman of the Albany County Legislature.” Mr. Clark brings extensive talents as a leader serving the four airports in Sacramento County and has important experience in airline operations and airline commercial development and strategy. These are vital skills as Albany County's Airport continues to grow and modernize."

“Stephen Clark’s extensive experience in aviation operations and business development make him the ideal choice for the Albany International Airport’s next CEO,” Albany County Legislature Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said. “From humble beginnings as a baggage handler to securing new airline routes and infrastructure investments as an executive, Stephen Clark knows the industry inside and out. I know he is well-equipped to help the Albany International Airport thrive and I look forward to working together and supporting his efforts to create a world-class airport experience.”

Clark earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science with an emphasis in Aviation Administration from Utah Valley University. He is an active member of Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

Clark will succeed Peter F. Stuto, who has served as Acting Chief Executive Officer since September 2024. After retiring in 2020 following 24 years as the Authority's General Counsel, Stuto returned from semi-retirement to help lead the organization through a period of transition.

“Throughout my time leading the Authority, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional team that has continued to move Albany International Airport forward,” Stuto said. “Stephen brings the right combination of leadership, aviation expertise and strategic vision to build on that momentum. I know the airport, our employees and the Capital Region are in excellent hands, and I wish him nothing but success as he takes the helm.”

Clark and the Airport Authority Board are working together to finalize his start date, which is expected to occur before the end of the summer.