The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority board was chosen Tuesday Michael Stephens to function the brand new CEO of Tampa Worldwide Airport.
Stephens at present serves because the airport's govt vp and basic counsel. He would be the airport's fourth CEO and its first Black chief.
Stephens' choice comes after a nine-month course of to pick a brand new govt to exchange the longtime CEO Joe Lopanowho introduced in February that he would retire on the finish of his contract in April 2025.
The vote to pick Stephens was Four-1, permitting the aviation authority to start contract negotiations with Stephens.
As soon as put in, Stephens will oversee greater than 670 staff at Tampa Worldwide Airport, Peter O. Knight, Tampa Govt and Plant Metropolis airports. Stephens may even lead Tampa Worldwide Airport's future development, new applied sciences and different developments within the business, and monetary and environmental sustainability practices.
“Tampa Worldwide Airport is a beloved establishment and an business icon, and I sit up for main our group whereas constructing on an award-winning repute for excellence,” stated Stephens. “It is going to be an unbelievable honor to comply with in Joe’s footsteps and lead among the finest expertise within the business. I’m grateful to the board and our group for this chance to construct on the TPA legacy.”
In his present position, Stephens offers authorized recommendation to Lopano and board members. He’s additionally govt vp of knowledge know-how companies, human assets, authorities and group relations, danger administration and enterprise variety.
Stephens has almost 25 years of expertise managing authorized, compliance, human assets, labor and employment issues. He’s additionally a veteran and served as a Captain and Trial Counsel within the U.S. Military's Decide Advocate Basic Corps (JAG). On this position, he was additionally appointed Particular Assistant to the USA Legal professional. Stephens additionally served as an energetic obligation air site visitors controller within the U.S. Air Drive.
Stephens is a member of the Florida BAR and the Affiliation of Company Counsel. He graduated from Management Florida and is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Tempo Middle for Women and the Authorized Steering Committee of Airport Council Worldwide.
A acknowledged cybersecurity and privateness professional, Stephens has twice testified earlier than Congress on cybersecurity and significant infrastructure safety.
Stephens earned his bachelor's diploma from Morehouse School and his legislation diploma from Washington School of Legislation at American College. He additionally earned a Grasp's in Worldwide Affairs from the College of Worldwide Affairs and accomplished Harvard Enterprise College's Superior Administration Program.
Stephens was one in all 4 inner candidates thought of for the CEO place, together with govt vp John TiliacosGovt Vice President of Advertising and marketing and Communications Chris Minnerand govt vp of finance, procurement and capital applications Damian Brooke. Tiliacos was the opposite finalist for the job.
As negotiations start on Stephens' CEO contract, the board will set up a transparent transition plan for Lopano's departure and Stephens' first day. A schedule has not but been decided.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Michael, who was really one of the sensible and versatile professionals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with,” stated Lopano. “Given his monitor report and ties to this group, I’ve little question that he cannot solely lead this group via any problem, but in addition take it to new heights as we enter the subsequent period of aviation.”
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