Torrance “Tory” Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, has been selected as the Director of the Year, Small Airports Division, by Airport Experience News. The Authority oversees Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, Michigan’s second-busiest airport.
Richardson’s career in aviation spans three decades. He took the helm at GRR in 2019 and is currently leading the Airport Authority’s capital expansion program known as Elevate, a $500 million initiative to accommodate passenger growth and the largest capital expansion program for a small hub airport in the country. He previously held senior leadership roles at the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, the Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority, and Rapid City Regional Airport. Earlier in his career, Richardson held various positions with airlines.
“Tory’s commitment to North American airports and aviation is evident by his leadership roles at small and medium hub airports.” said Melissa K. Montes, publisher and portfolio director of Airport Experience News. “In addition, his work on behalf of the entire North American airport industry has been extraordinary, with involvement in both Airports Council International-North America and the American Association of Airport Executives, as well as state and regional groups.”
Richardson said it is a “privilege” to be named a Director of the Year by AXN. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire airport team, who continually strive to deliver a world-class experience to our guests,” he said. “I take great pride in serving the Ford International Airport, fostering economic growth in our region, building community and global connections and enhancing airport operations.”
Richardson is the first of three directors of the year to be named by AXN for 2023. AXN’s selections for the medium and large airport categories will be revealed in the coming weeks. All will be featured in a special Leadership Issue of Airport Experience News and will be honored at the 2024 Airport Experience Conference.
