DETROIT WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY APPOINTS ALLEN AS INTERIM CEO

Genelle Allen has been appointed interim CEO of Detroit’s Wayne County Airport Authority, replacing the outgoing Joseph Nardone who leaves for the top job at Columbus Regional Airport Authority next week.

In her new role, Allen will lead the airport authority, the independent governmental entity tasked with management and operation of Detroit Metropolitan (DTW) and Willow Run (YIP) airports, until the Board selects a longer-term replacement for Nardone.

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“Genelle is a well-respected leader in our state, especially within the airport authority,” said Wayne County Airport Authority Board chair, Michael Garavaglia. 

“We are pleased she accepted the Board’s request to return to WCAA. Her extensive knowledge about our industry, combined with her leadership, legal and procurement experience, will help the airport authority continue to be a key contributor to Michigan’s economy as we finalise transition plans for longer-term leadership.”

While serving as the Interim CEO, Allen will be on an unpaid-leave of absence from her role as chief operating officer for Wayne County.

Allen’s diverse background includes nearly 15 years with Detroit Metropolitan and Willow Run airports. She advanced through the ranks, starting as an assistant corporation counsel for WCAA’s predecessor in 1997. 

Allen went on to become senior vice president of procurement and strategy management, executive vice president, interim CEO, and deputy CEO.

“I look forward to working with the Board and my former colleagues and newer members of the WCAA team during this transition,” enthused Allen.

“Together, we will ensure we’re providing a world-class passenger experience, investing in our employees, operating safe and secure airports, and maintaining a competitive cost structure, while creating opportunities for job growth in our state.”

Nardone announced in December that he’d accepted a position as president and CEO of Columbus Regional Airport Authority.

Elsewhere in the US, Miami International Airport is also on the lookout for a new boss after Emilio González announced his decision to quit as the director and CEO of Miami-Dade Aviation Department after four and a half years in the hot seat.