Travel retail veteran takes charge of Concessions International as longtime leader prepares for retirement.
Nikki Tinsley Harland will become CEO of Concessions International LLC on October 6th. The Atlanta-based company represents one of America’s largest Black-owned airport concessionaires. Harland succeeds Donata Russell Ross, who served as CEO for 12 years.
Russell Ross will retire next month after spending 42 years with the company. During her leadership, she transformed CI into a $120 million business with 1,100 employees. The transition process is expected to complete by late Q1 2026.
Travel Retail Expert Brings 12 Years of Leadership Experience to Airport Concessionaire
Harland brings extensive experience from the travel retail industry to her new role. She most recently served as Chief Operating Officer at Paradies Lagardère. The Atlanta-based competitor offers travel essentials, specialty retail, and dining services at airports.
Her 12-year track record includes driving growth and fostering innovation across multiple locations. Industry peers recognize Harland for her ability to lead with integrity. She demonstrates proven skills in managing complex retail operations within airport environments.
The CEO search committee selected Harland after an extensive evaluation process. Michael B. Russell and H. Jerome Russell led the search committee. Both brothers are children of legendary Atlanta businessman Herman J. Russell.
Russell Ross Leaves Behind $120M Revenue Empire Spanning Eight Major Airports
Russell Ross transformed CI into a major force in airport retail during her tenure. The company now serves over 30 national, regional, and proprietary brands. CI operates at almost 40 locations across eight different airports nationwide.
Under Russell Ross’s leadership, the company significantly boosted its airport presence. She successfully added major national brands to the company’s portfolio. Additionally, she elevated women and minority business participation throughout the organization.
“We couldn’t have found a more perfect candidate to be my successor,” Russell Ross said of Harland. “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 CI to the next level.”
Family-Owned Business Continues Herman J. Russell’s Entrepreneurial Legacy
Concessions International was founded 46 years ago by Herman J. Russell and two partners. Felker W. Ward Jr. and Jesse Hill Jr. joined Russell in establishing the company. Russell eventually bought out both partners in 1999, making CI entirely family-owned.
The late Herman J. Russell started H.J. Russell & Co. in 1952. His construction company became one of the nation’s largest Black-owned firms. The business regularly appears on BLACK ENTERPRISE’s annual ranking of America’s top Black-owned companies.
CEO Michael Russell now leads the family’s construction empire. Russell Ross will remain board chair of H.J. Russell & Co. following her retirement. She plans to assist Harland during the leadership transition period.
New CEO Expresses Commitment to Building on Established Foundation
Harland expressed excitement about joining CI and continuing its growth trajectory. She acknowledges the strong foundation built by previous leaders. The incoming CEO particularly recognizes Russell Ross’s role as an industry role model.
“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,” Harland stated.
Her appointment represents a significant milestone for Black women in corporate leadership. Harland will oversee operations at one of the largest Black-owned airport concessionaires. Her leadership will guide the company’s next phase of expansion and innovation.
Atlanta Roots and Industry Expertise Position Leader for Future Growth
Harland’s Atlanta connections provide valuable advantages for the locally-based company. Her deep understanding of the regional business environment supports CI’s continued expansion. These local ties complement her extensive travel retail experience.
The new CEO’s proven track record suggests strong potential for future growth. Her innovative approach aligns with CI’s goals for taking the business to new levels. Industry observers expect Harland to leverage her expertise in driving operational excellence.
Russell Ross’s mentorship during the transition will ensure continuity of leadership. The retiring CEO’s 42 years of institutional knowledge will benefit the incoming leader. This collaborative approach positions CI for sustained success under new management.
