LOS ANGELES, Dec. 4, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) has announced the appointment of Kathy Van Ness as the Financial Manager II of its Financial Planning Division.
Van Ness will be responsible for managing the Los Angeles City department's operating budget and the Financial System Section (FAMIS/SAP) for LAWA's four airports: Los Angeles International (LAX), Ontario International (ONT), Van Nuys (VNY) and Palmdale Regional (PMD).
"Kathy's solid finance background and experience immensely qualifies her to serve as manager of the Financial Planning Division at Los Angeles World Airports," said Karen Sisson, LAWA chief financial officer. "Her return to the Finance organization is expected to increase our ability to provide quality financial management practices and expertise to LAWA's airports and divisions."
Van Ness has over 20 years experience and education in management, finance, strategic planning, accounting and research. She began her career in the health industry as an economic consultant, director of planning research, director of operations analysis, and rates analyst. Her career with the City of Los Angeles began in 1988 at the City Administrative Office, followed by the Department of Airports (now LAWA), and then the Controller's Office. At LAWA, she headed the Budget and Audit Division in 2001, and worked with executive administration on budget and finance matters.
Van Ness previously worked as a consultant for the Rand Corporation and as administrative officer for Long Beach Airport.
She earned a B.A. degree from California State University, Northridge, in history with a minor in journalism; a Master's degree in Urban Planning from the University of Washington, Seattle; and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles, in Urban Planning. She is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association, California Society of Municipal Finance Officers, and Association of Government Accountants.
(NOTE TO EDITORS: Photo of Kathy Van Ness is available from LAWA/LAX Public Relations at 310-646-5260 or e-mail gpacheco@lawa.org)