KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) has confirmed that Audley Deidrick will retire from his role as president and chief executive officer (CEO), describing his departure as part of a collaborative, long-term, planned succession process structured by the Board of Directors.

Deidrick will begin pre-retirement leave at the end of this week, the AAJ revealed in a statement on Tuesday.

It said the decision comes by mutual agreement between Deidrick and the board and embodies a shared vision for the continued development of Jamaica’s national aviation assets and a desire to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

Deidrick has been with the AAJ for over 20 years, first joining the organisation in 2005 as vice president of finance.

He served as senior vice president of finance for information & communication technology (ICT) and human resource development and administration (HRDA) before being promoted to president and CEO in March 2015.

The board noted that during Deidrick’s tenure, the AAJ achieved significant milestones, including the concessioning of the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) and securitisation transactions for NMIA and Sangster International Airport.

It, along with management and staff, expressed its gratitude for Deidrick’s dedicated leadership and commitment to Jamaica’s aviation sector.

The authority said it remains committed to its mandate to develop and sustain a world-class airport system that supports national development, tourism, investment, and connectivity.