PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Airport officials announced Monday that former Panama City Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon has been elected board chairman of the Panama City-Bay County Airport and Industrial District, which owns and operates the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP).

According to ECP, Sheldon succeeds former CEO Holly K. Melzer, the first woman to hold the position. During Melzer’s two-year tenure as chair, she oversaw ongoing expansion and construction.

In his new position as CEO, Sheldon will focus on diversifying and strengthening the local economy through the growth of the airport, according to ECP officials.

“I am honored to assume this role and have the opportunity to lead the airport through this continued era of outstanding growth and success,” said Sheldon. “ECP plays a fundamental role in our economy and I look forward to serving the region from this unique perspective.”

“Mark’s familiarity with our region is unmatched, making him an excellent choice for this role,” said Parker W. McClellan Jr., AAE, general manager of Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. “With his extensive experience, passengers and residents of Bay County can be confident that our airport will thrive under his leadership.”

The airport district is composed of seven members, each serving a four-year term limited to two terms. Two board members are appointed by the Panama City City Commission, two by the Board of Bay County Commissioners, two by the Panama City Beach City Council, and one by the Walton County Board of County Commissioners.

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