Monterey Regional Airport went on a nationwide search for a new executive director after Mike La Pier announced his retirement in September 2024. But it didn’t need to go far to find one.
Chris Morello, who has served in the interim role since June and has been with the airport since 2007, was named the permanent executive director on Nov. 19.
“I am honored to have been asked to take on the role as executive director for Monterey Regional Airport and am excited to build on the incredible legacy of the airport’s former executive directors,” Morello said in a press release. “By working together with the airport’s board, staff and partners, we can continue to transform and strengthen MRY’s aviation infrastructure and deliver world-class services to our local and visiting travelers and aviation tenants.”
Morello began her Monterey Regional Airport career in the planning department in 2007, and was named the deputy executive director in 2022.
In her new role, she’ll be responsible for the airport’s operations and continuing development. That includes overseeing its ongoing $200 million Metamorphosis expansion project. A new terminal is currently under construction.
“Ms. Morello’s leadership, track record, strong community connections, and aviation and airports’ planning experience will ensure the continued success of MRY during construction of the Replacement Passenger Terminal,” Carl Miller, chair of the MPAD Board of Directors, said in a press release. “Her intimate knowledge of every major project at MRY since 2007 and the many opportunities and challenges facing the Monterey Regional Airport and the communities it serves make her the ideal choice as executive director.”
The board, which approved a $45,000 contract with ADK Consulting and Executive Search in October 2024 for the search, will consider an employment agreement with Morello at its next meeting on Dec. 11. According to a job listing posted by ADK, the salary range for the executive director is $218,000-$270,000.
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