The Des Moines Airport Authority has hired Kayla Kovarna in a newly created position of communications, marketing and air service development manager. Kovarna, who has more than 10 years of business development and fundraising experience, will oversee the airport’s communications efforts including media relations, digital content creation and presentations, while also being responsible for air service business plan development. Most recently, Kovarna was executive director of the Central Iowa Heart Association. She also worked as Midwest regional director for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for seven years. Kovarna has a degree in journalism and communications studies from the University of Iowa. “We are pleased to add this new position to support our team in achieving our strategic plan, which includes the new terminal project,” said Kevin Foley, Des Moines Airport Authority executive director. “Our continued growth has created a need for this role, and Kayla is well positioned to meet these needs as we prepare for expansion.”