DENVER – Nov. 19, 2025 – Denver International Airport (DEN) today announced that Chris Herndon has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer/Executive Vice President. In this role, Herndon will oversee the airport’s commercial portfolio, including concessions, airline affairs, hotel, rental car agencies and business functions such as procurement, contracting and risk management. Herndon will assume his new position on Dec. 15, 2025.

Herndon brings more than a decade of public-sector leadership and experience in aviation operations, commercial strategy and stakeholder engagement. A former Denver City Council member for 12 years— including two years as Council President— he led budget negotiations for city budgets exceeding $1 billion and represented DEN interests in regional policy decisions. He also previously served on the airport’s Management Advisory Council, contributing to discussions on commercial development and long-term airport strategy.

Earlier in his career, Herndon worked in commercial operations at United Airlines, where he managed ramp and hub operations at one of the carrier’s largest airport stations.

“Chris brings a unique blend of government leadership, commercial acumen, and firsthand aviation experience,” DEN CEO Phil Washington said. “His ability to build partnerships and drive strategic growth will help strengthen DEN’s position as a global gateway.”

Herndon holds degrees from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point (BS), Webster University (MA) and the University of Colorado at Denver (MPA). He is also a U.S. Army veteran.

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. DEN is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating more than $47.2 billion for the region annually. For more information visit www.FlyDenver.com, check us out on YouTube and Instagram, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Sign up for DEN’s monthly newsletter Nonstop News.