Graham Ritz
Aviation Professional and Enthusiast - Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority
- Role
- Interim Chief Operations and Public Safety Officer (Copso) at Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority
- Location
- Reno, NV, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Graham Ritz
Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) with 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in commercial and general aviation airport operations. Proven track record overseeing systemwide operations, public safety, and facilities from general aviation to large-hub international airports, including Reno-Tahoe International Airport, Mineta San José International Airport, Central Illinois Regional Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Put-in-Bay Airport, and Indianapolis International Airport. Currently responsible for a $20.5M operating budget and operational performance supporting 5+ million annual passengers. Recognized leader with active national and regional industry governance roles, focused on advancing operational excellence, leadership development, and collaboration across the aviation sector.
Experience
Interim Chief Operations and Public Safety Officer (Copso)
Jan 2026 — Present · Reno, NV, US
Serve as Chief Operations & Public Safety Officer, providing enterprise-level executive leadership for all airport operations, public safety, and general aviation functions for both RNO and RTS airports (8 departments with over 100 team members)• Report directly to the President/CEO and operate as a member of the Executive Leadership Team, advising on organizational strategy, policy direction, and operational risk management• Provide strategic oversight of airside, landside, security, terminal operations, ARFF, Police coordination, emergency management, and general aviation, ensuring safe, secure, and efficient 24/7 airport operations• Lead and align division goals, performance metrics, and operational priorities with RTAA’s strategic plan, values (THRIVE), and customer service objectives• Oversee division operating budgets and resource deployment; collaborate on long-range capital planning and major infrastructure initiatives• Direct executive-level response to airport incidents, emergencies, and irregular operations, serving as essential personnel and senior decision-maker• Foster a high-performance leadership culture focused on succession planning, continuous improvement, and workforce development across operations and public safety teams• Represent the Airport Authority in executive-level coordination with airlines, FAA, TSA, law enforcement, fire services, tenants, elected officials, and community stakeholders• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing airport operations, safety, and security
Education
Lewis University
Bachelor of Science - BS, Aviation Administration
2010 — 2015
Cathedral High School
College/University Preparatory and Advanced High School/Secondary Diploma Program
2006 — 2010
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