Lee R. Kair Named Assistant Administrator for Security Operations
Press Release
TSA Public Affairs
(571) 227-2829
WASHINGTON - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today named Lee R. Kair as TSA's assistant administrator for Security Operations. In this role, Kair will be responsible for providing executive management of daily field operations for a workforce of approximately 48,000 employees at more than 450 airports nationwide.
As assistant administrator, Kair's responsibilities will also include oversight of regulatory compliance, budget and financial requirements, program planning, partnering with security operators in other modes, and the development of strategic plans for the future operational role of TSA.
Kair most recently served as federal security director (FSD) for the Orlando (Fla.) International Airport. Before being named FSD in Orlando, Kair oversaw several initiatives of strategic importance to the organization. Some of the most notable achievements of this office under Kair's leadership were development and deployment of enhanced explosives training for transportation security officers (TSOs), initiation of Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) teams, and decentralizing the hiring process for TSOs.
"Lee is an innovator and a people person who knows the details of security issues and TSA's role in providing a smooth, trouble free experience for passengers," said TSA Administrator Kip Hawley. "Lee has energized the workforce and enhanced relationships with key partners in the airport, airline and law enforcement communities. His team spirit and tireless energy will serve our nation well in this critical new role."
Kair started with TSA in 2004 as the assistant administrator for Acquisition where he headed up the agency's $2.5 billion acquisitions program. Before joining TSA, Kair was the director of strategic sourcing and acquisition systems at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Prior to joining DHS, he held various positions in several federal agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force and the Department of Defense.
Kair holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and a master's degree in government contract management. He will replace Mo McGowan, who will continue to work for TSA in security program development.
For more information about TSA, please visit our Web site at www.tsa.gov
