Department of Airports Deputy Director Accepts Role at Albany International Airport

Sacramento, CA – Stephen Clark, Deputy Director of Commercial Development for the Sacramento County Department of Airports (SCDA), has accepted the opportunity to serve as the next Chief Executive Officer of the Albany County Airport Authority (ACAA).

ACAA owns and operates Albany International Airport in upstate New York.

“Stephen has been an integral member of our leadership team,” said Cindy Nichol, Director of Airports for Sacramento County. “He has helped lead many of the Department's most significant commercial and strategic initiatives, including the Mather Airport Strategic Real Estate Development Plan, the modernization of SMF's food and beverage concessions program, development of the new airline lease and use agreement, support for the SMForward program, and ongoing efforts to expand air service and strengthen partnerships throughout the region.”

 In his nearly five years with SCDA, Clark helped guide the business and growth strategy of a four-airport system that serves more than 13 million passengers each year.

“Stephen has been a leader in various regional and community capacities including the Cap-to-Cap Aviation Team, the Capital Airshow Board, and the Roseville Chamber,” said Harry Barratt, Jr., Assistant Director of Airports, Sacramento County. “And was one of the Sacramento Business Journal’s 2024 C-Suite honorees. He has been instrumental in the growth and success of our airport system during the past five years.”

As Deputy Director of Commercial Development in Sacramento, Clark has overseen airline affairs, commercial real estate, concessions, marketing, communications and air service development.

"Stephen brings an outstanding combination of aviation experience, strategic vision and proven leadership," said Sam Fresina, Chair of the Albany County Airport Authority Board of Directors. "Throughout the search process, it became clear that he understands the evolving role airports play in driving economic growth, enhancing the passenger experience and serving their communities. We are confident he is the right leader to build on the tremendous momentum at Albany International Airport and guide the organization into its next chapter."

Albany International Airport serves as the major air center for the Capital Region, Northeastern New York, and Western New England. In 2025, the airport handled 3.15 million total passengers.