Commercial Development Associate

The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport is a bold and exciting project to develop a best-in-class international terminal that will serve as an anchor terminal in the Port Authority's $19 billion transformation of JFK into a global gateway to the New York metropolitan area and the United States. The New Terminal One will set a new standard for design and service, aspiring to obtain a top 5-star Skytrax rating.

Who we are looking for:

We are seeking an individual with a strong interest in airport development, commercial real estate, retail, hospitality, business development, and revenue-generating initiatives. This individual will play a key role in supporting the Commercial Development team by assisting with the leasing, development, and performance of concessions, lounges, offices, advertising, and other non-airline revenue opportunities throughout the terminal.

They will support commercial transactions, tenant coordination, stakeholder communications, project tracking, and the development of commercial spaces that enhance both revenue generation and the passenger experience. The Commercial Development Associate will help foster productive relationships with tenants, airlines, consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders while supporting a variety of strategic commercial initiatives.

This role provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a dynamic airport environment, contribute to the success of a world-class terminal, and develop expertise in commercial strategy, project management, financial analysis, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate is proactive, highly organized, analytical, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and motivated to build a career in commercial development, real estate, aviation, or related industries.

What you’ll be doing:

Project Management & Commercial Transactions

You will support the negotiation, implementation, and administration of a variety of commercial agreements and projects, including concessions, airline lounges, airline office space, advertising programs, gaming and attractions, and other revenue-generating opportunities across the terminal.

• Assist with commercial transactions and project implementation from planning through delivery.
• Maintain organized project documentation and records.
• Track project schedules, milestones, budgets, action items, and deliverables.
• Coordinate with internal departments, consultants, contractors, tenants, and other stakeholders.
• Identify potential project risks, issues, or schedule impacts and escalate them to senior team members with recommended solutions.
• Support efforts to ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.

Market Research and Financial Analysis

You will help evaluate and support the terminal's commercial development strategy by conducting research and analysis on industry trends, commercial opportunities, and revenue performance.

• Research comparable airport terminals, retail centers, entertainment venues, and public spaces.
• Gather and organize data to identify potential revenue opportunities and market trends.
• Maintain financial tracking tools and reports.
• Assist with budget tracking, lease analysis, forecasting, and commercial performance reporting.
• Support the preparation of analyses and recommendations for senior leadership.

Reporting and Communications

You will create clear, professional materials that support decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and project execution.

• Prepare presentations, memos, reports, charts, and correspondence for executive leadership and project teams.
• Support reporting requirements for external stakeholders, including the Port Authority.
• Assist in developing materials for public meetings, industry conferences, marketing initiatives, and business development opportunities.
• Attend meetings and events as needed and provide follow-up support and coordination.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Graduate Degree in real estate, business, finance, public policy, urban planning, architecture or similar field is a plus
• Approximately 3 years of relevant professional experience in commercial real estate, project management, business development, finance, aviation, hospitality, retail, consulting, or a related field.
• Exposure to commercial lease structures, contract administration, or real estate transactions is a plus.
• Experience in aviation, hospitality, retail, or development environments is desirable.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Strong organizational and project coordination abilities.
• Comfort managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and experience working with financial or operational data.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional teams.
• Confidence interacting with internal and external stakeholders.
• Curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to identify process improvements and new opportunities.
• Comfort speaking in group settings and supporting presentations.

What we offer: 

• Competitive Medical, dental, and vision insurance 

• Health Savings and Reimbursement Accounts HSA/HRA 

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 

• Generous Commuter Benefits 

• Group Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance 

• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance 

• Competitive 401k matching 

• Discount and other perks through partner programs   

Where will you work:

This role will be onsite and is currently located in Building 111 at JFK Airport. Certain duties will require you to access our construction site, and you will be required to strictly adhere to all company and site-specific safety guidelines.

This is a local hire position. The company does not offer relocation packages or reimbursement for moving expenses.

As NTO progresses towards its operational phase, your role may transition to the terminal, where you will be directly involved in the day-to-day activities of this state-of-the-art international terminal.

This role requires a valid Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge, and CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) seal, which will be obtained and maintained throughout employment. Successful candidates will be subject to a background check and other security clearance procedures mandated by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration, CBP and PANYNJ (Port Authority of New York and New Jersey). Candidates who cannot obtain and maintain this credential will not be considered for employment.

Our values and commitment:
We do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The New Terminal One consortium of labor, operating, and financial partners is led by Ferrovial, JLC Infrastructure, Ullico, and Carlyle. The New Terminal One is being built by union labor and we are committed to local inclusion and labor participation, focusing on diversity and capacity-building opportunities, including ambitious participation goals of 30% for minority and women-owned enterprises, 10% for local business enterprises and 3% for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.

To learn more about the New Terminal One at JFK International Airport, visit https://portauthoritybuilds.com/redevelopment/us/en/jfk/planned-projects/terminal-1.html