Darrell D. Watson, A.A.E. is currently the Louisville Regional Airport Authority’s Senior Vice President, Chief Experience Officer, which he was appointed to in July 2021. Mr. Watson has the overall responsibility of directing and guiding the development and implementation of a comprehensive program that enhances the reputation and relations with the media, community, government and regulatory authorities, airlines and other tenants, chambers of commerce, tourism organizations, civic organizations and employees of the Airport Authority. His duties also include the oversight of information technology, cybersecurity, and fostering innovation at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). Additionally, Mr. Watson has had various oversight responsibilities in his 20-plus years at the Airport Authority, including operations, air service development, human resources, properties, and concessions.
Prior to being named the Senior Vice President and Chief Experience Officer, Mr. Watson served as the Vice President of Strategy and Innovation for the Louisville Regional Airport Authority since April 2018. He was also the Director of Properties and Business Development from June 2008 until his promotion in 2018. Mr. Watson has worked in Warwick, Rhode Island, where he was Vice President of Commercial Programs for the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. Prior to moving to Rhode Island, Mr. Watson was the Properties Manager for the Louisville Regional Airport Authority. Mr. Watson also served in management positions for Clear Channel Airport Advertising in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Watson is active in various airport industry trade associations and is an accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). He is the past-Chairperson of the Business and Finance Committee of the Great Lakes Chapter of AAAE and is the past-President of the Kentucky Aviation Association.
Mr. Watson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Technology and a Masters Degree in Aviation Safety from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri.
