Jesse Romo has been named Airport Director for the City of Manhattan effective April 27.

City Manager Ron Fehr announced the appointment Thursday. “I am extremely pleased to bring someone with the breadth of aviation experience and proven, hands-on experience working with airports in Kansas as well as working with federal aviation officials and regulations that Jesse Romo will bring to the position as airport director,” Fehr said. “Jesse’s energy and experience with marketing and public relations will certainly enhance customer service to encourage travelers to use or increase their usage of MHK.”

Romo currently serves as the director of aviation at the Kansas Department of Transportation, Topeka, and started working for KDOT in January 2006. He previously served as deputy director of aviation, manager of federal and state affairs for aviation, and assistant office chief in the office of management and budget for KDOT.  He also served as director of airport support network for Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association in Frederick, Md.

The airport director vacancy was created when Peter VanKuren announced his resignation in November. VanKuren’s final day with the City of Manhattan will be May 15.