USA. Concessions International (CI) – operator of 40 food & beverage locations in eight US airports – has announced that CEO Donata Russell Ross will be succeeded by Nikki Tinsley Harland, the former Chief Operating Officer of Paradies Lagardère.
Russell Ross – who has worked at Atlanta-headquartered CI for 42 years and held the CEO position since 2013 – will retire next month (October).
CI revealed its CEO search committee, which included Russell Ross’ brothers, Michael B. Russell and H. Jerome Russell, the children of the late Co-Founder Herman J. Russell, unanimously chose Tinsley Harland as the company’s next CEO. She will assume the role effective 6 October.
During Russell Ross’ tenure, CI increased its US airport presence, added national brands, increased women and minority business participation, and successfully navigated industry difficulties during and after the COVID-19 pandemic period.
Russell Ross will continue to serve as the Chair of the Board of CI owner H. J. Russell & Company and will be available to Tinsley Harland throughout the transition, expected to be complete by the end of Q1 2026.
Russell Ross said: “We couldn’t have found a more perfect candidate to be my successor. With her Atlanta roots, knowledge of the industry, leadership skills, innovative spirit and proven track record, she is the ideal person to lead CI into the future and take it to the next level.
“It has been the privilege of my career to lead CI, and I have every confidence in Nikki and in the bright future ahead for the company.”
Tinsley Harland brings 12 years’ travel retail industry leadership experience to her new role. CI noted that throughout her career, she has been recognised for her ability to drive growth, foster innovation and lead with integrity.
She was notably the 2024 Airport Experience News (AXN) Woman of the Year, and Russell Ross is the 2025 AXN Woman of the Year.
Tinsley Harland commented, “I am excited to join Concessions International as CEO and build upon the incredible foundation and legacy established by those who came before me, and particularly by Donata, who has served as an industry role model for so many of us.
“I look forward to working with the talented team at CI to deliver excellence and innovation in our industry. I know for sure that we will continue to take CI to the next level, ensuring that it delivers strong results and is one of the best places to work.” ✈
