The Wayne County Airport Authority, which operates Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) and Willow Run (YIP) airports, appointed Joseph Nardone to serve as CEO.
Nardone was named interim CEO in October after the retirement of former CEO Thomas Naughton. Previously, he was vice president of business development and real estate for the airport authority for nearly two years.
Nardone is credited with playing a critical role in the negotiations that led to the construction of Spirit Airlines’ new maintenance hangar at DTW. The project is expected to generate $31.7 million in new private investment for Michigan’s economy.
“Joe has proven to be a committed and thoughtful leader,” said WCAA Acting Board Chair Michael Garavaglia. “His depth of experience in the public, private and nonprofit sectors — combined with his understanding of airport administration — will help him successfully lead the airport authority. I look forward to WCAA’s continued growth with Joe at the helm.”
Nardone, whose past career includes working for private-sector companies including Huron Valley Steel Corporation, Fritz Enterprises and Southgate Properties, said he is grateful for the confidence shown in him by the airport authority board.
“I also appreciate the opportunity to work with more than 600 dedicated employees as we build on the strong foundation and community partnerships that have made our team successful,” he added. “I want our team to remain focused on delivering a world-class experience for our customers.”
