The Philadelphia International Airport has found its new CEO: Atif Saeed. 

In a press release, Mayor Jim Kenney announced Saeed would take over as head of the Division of Aviation, which includes Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE) beginning on Dec. 1, 2022.

“After a rigorous selection process, evaluating a diverse slate of excellent candidates, I am proud to announce Atif Saeed’s appointment as the new CEO of the Division of Aviation. Saeed’s leadership will be critical in helping enhance Philadelphia International Airport’s position as a major economic driver for the city and region, helping to support thousands of jobs,” said Mayor Kenney.

“I also want to thank Keith Brune for stepping up into the role of interim CEO while we conducted this national search to choose a permanent candidate,” he continued.

Brune has served as interim CEO since June 2022, after former CEO Chellie Cameron stepped down to become the new President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia.

Currently, Saeed is serving as CFO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) operating the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) alongside six general airports, previously serving as Vice President of Finance and Revenue Development.

During his time there, MSP was awarded the Best Airport in North America by the Airport Council International (ACI) for their 25-40 million passenger category, of which Saeed’s leadership contributed to earning the award.

Additionally, Saeed is presently managing several departments, including finance, purchasing, risk insurance, properties, airline affairs, and human resources, among others.

Some of Saeed’s previous experience includes working across hub airports including Phoenix, Atlanta, and Minneapolis. Operations he has overseen include commercial, finance, and aggregate airport operations.

“I’m honored to lead the City of Philadelphia’s Division of Aviation and the many teams and staff that support the critical operations at Philadelphia International Airport and Northeast Philadelphia Airport,” said Saeed. 

“I’m excited for the great opportunities ahead to grow the already substantial economic impact and jobs the airports create in the region, and their importance as a welcoming gateway for millions to experience greater Philadelphia’s historic and vibrant communities,” he continued.

Early in his career, Saeed successfully entrepreneured a sedan and limousine transportation company, giving him experience in how small businesses operate in tandem with airports.

Saeed has completed an undergraduate degree in business management from the University of Phoenix and a Master’s of Business Administration from Arizona State University, W.P. Carey School of Business, and recently completed the 2021 Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.

His accreditations in the airport industry include Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) from American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), and International Airport Professional (IAP) from the ACI.