What's Happening?
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has announced the appointment of Steve Smith as its new Chief Executive Officer. Smith, an aviation and supply chain leader, will take over from Brandon Fried, who will remain with the association during a transition
period. Smith brings over 25 years of leadership experience in aviation, logistics, and humanitarian response. His previous roles include 13 years as President and Chief Executive Officer of Airlink and a senior commercial position with Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace. During his tenure at Airlink, Smith expanded the organization significantly, growing it from a one-person startup to a non-profit with nearly $20 million in revenue, working with over 50 airlines and logistics companies and 250 humanitarian groups across 100 countries. He was instrumental in responding to more than 200 disasters and crises, assisting over 80 million people. Smith also developed the operational framework that connected the aviation industry to humanitarian relief efforts, shaping how airlines, logistics providers, and aid organizations coordinate crisis responses. His work has been recognized by President Bill Clinton at the Clinton Global Initiative, and he is an alumnus of the Presidential Leadership Scholars program.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Steve Smith as CEO of the Airforwarders Association is significant for the U.S. logistics and supply chain industries. Smith's extensive background in managing global disruptions, including COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine War, positions him to address current and future challenges facing air cargo. His experience as a NATO spokesperson and subject matter expert on public and private sector crisis response highlights his capability to navigate complex geopolitical and trade policy shifts that impact supply chains. The AfA plays a crucial role in advocating for forwarders in Washington, D.C., and across the industry, which is central to billions of dollars in global trade daily. With aging infrastructure and ongoing geopolitical disruptions, the need for predictable and resilient supply chains is paramount. Smith's leadership is expected to strengthen the association's voice and its efforts to secure investments in infrastructure, benefiting U.S. businesses reliant on efficient air cargo operations. His focus on operational frameworks and coordination in crisis response could lead to more robust and adaptable supply chain strategies for the U.S.
What's Next?
Steve Smith will assume his new responsibilities as Chief Executive Officer of the Airforwarders Association, with Brandon Fried assisting during a transition period. Smith is expected to engage with AfA members and continue the association's advocacy work in Washington. His immediate focus will likely involve addressing the pressures on supply chains caused by shifting trade policies, geopolitical disruptions, and infrastructure challenges. The association will continue its efforts to ensure forwarders have an effective voice in policy discussions and industry developments. Smith's background suggests a potential emphasis on enhancing the resilience and coordination of air cargo logistics, particularly in response to future global crises. Both Smith and Fried are scheduled to be available for interviews at The International Air Cargo Association’s Air Cargo Forum in Miami, United States, from October 26-29, where they may further elaborate on their plans and the future direction of the AfA.
Beyond the Headlines
Smith's appointment signals a potential shift towards a more integrated and crisis-responsive approach within the U.S. air cargo sector. His experience in humanitarian logistics and coordinating responses to major global disruptions could influence how the industry prepares for and mitigates future shocks. This leadership could foster greater collaboration between the private sector, government agencies, and international organizations to build more resilient supply chains. The emphasis on infrastructure investment and navigating geopolitical complexities also highlights the evolving nature of global trade, where logistics are increasingly intertwined with national security and international relations. Smith's recognition by President Bill Clinton and his participation in the Presidential Leadership Scholars program underscore a broader understanding of leadership that extends beyond commercial interests, potentially bringing a more holistic perspective to the challenges faced by the airforwarding industry. This could lead to innovative solutions that balance economic efficiency with social responsibility and preparedness for unforeseen events.
