William Vanecek, director of aviation at Buffalo Niagara International (BUF) has taken over the position of board chair for Airports Council International – North America. He replaces outgoing chair Maureen Riley, executive director of the Salt Lake City Department of Airports.
The change in leadership took place during a special reception on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2016, at the ACI-NA/World Annual Conference and World Annual General Assembly in Montréal.
“ACI-NA has an ability to bring together the industry to find common-sense solutions to challenges we face as airport operators,” said Vanecek. “As the next chair of ACI-NA, I am looking forward to working alongside airport leaders to advance important airport priorities in Washington and Ottawa.”
Vanececk has served as the director of aviation for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority since 1998, overseeing the business and operations at BUF and Niagara Falls International (IAG).
ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke praised Riley’s leadership during her one-year tenure at chair.
“Over the last year, Maureen’s leadership was essential as we advanced airport priorities through effective collaboration, both within the aviation industry and with non-aviation partners,” Burke said. “We appreciate her dedication to the airport industry.”
Burke added that “Bill brings the determination necessary to find solutions that ensure airports can keep up with the demands placed on them by their local communities.”
Riley will now serve as the immediate past chair of the ACI-NA board.
Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG), moved in to the vice chair position. Rob Wigington, President and CEO of Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, was elected chair of the U.S. Policy Council.
New members were also announced to the 2016 ACI-NA World Business Partners/Associates Board of Directors during at the conference, including Derryl Benton, executive vice president of business development at HMSHost Corp.; Robert Chicas, director of aviation and transportation at HOK; and Enrique Melendez, vice president of business development at Leidos.
