Assistant City Manager Rick Francis has accepted a new role with John Wayne Airport as the Assistant Airport Director.

Francis joined the City of Costa Mesa in 2012, as part of the City’s executive management team. While much of his responsibilities include working closely with City Council and Department Directors, Francis has most notably led the city’s efforts in finding solutions for homeless issue, working closely with the residential and business communities and the city’s Network for Homeless Solutions.

Prior to joining the City of Costa Mesa, Francis worked for the County of Orange in a number of capacities.  As Chief of Staff to Second District Supervisor John Moorlach, Francis was responsible for working with the Board of Supervisors, the County Executive Office and various County departments.  Importantly, he advised Supervisor Moorlach on JWA-related matters including the Settlement Agreement, budget and infrastructure development – including the construction of Terminal C.  Before joining Supervisor Moorlach’s office, Francis spent 13 years at the Probation Department where he was responsible for oversight of the Program Support and Research Division.

Francis holds a Bachelor’s degree in religion from Vanguard University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from American Public University.  He is also a graduate of the County’s Leadership Academy and Enlightened Leadership programs.  He has broad ties to the community including membership in the Association of California Cities-Orange County Homelessness Task Force and the Mental Health Services Act Steering Committee.