The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has appointed Steve Smith as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Brandon Fried after 21 years at the organisation. The appointment brings an experienced aviation and logistics executive to the US freight forwarding association.
Fried will remain with AfA during a transition period, helping Smith gradually assume responsibility for the role.
Aviation and logistics experience
Smith brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across aviation, logistics and humanitarian response. He previously spent 13 years as President and Chief Executive Officer of Airlink. Before joining the organisation, Smith also held a senior commercial position at Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace.
During his time at Airlink, Smith developed an operational framework connecting aviation companies with humanitarian organisations responding to global crises.
He grew Airlink from a one-person operation into a non-profit organisation generating almost $20 million in revenue.
The organisation worked with more than 50 airlines and logistics companies and 250 humanitarian groups across 100 countries. Smith also directed responses to major international disruptions, including COVID-19, the Ebola outbreak and the 2023 Türkiye earthquake.
“The work of the AfA has rarely been more important,” said Smith. “Forwarders need greater predictability as they navigate these pressures, and investment in the infrastructure that keeps it moving.”
Focus on freight forwarders
Smith will take responsibility for AfA as freight forwarders navigate changing trade policies and continuing global supply chain disruption.
He plans to work with AfA members and strengthen the industry’s representation in Washington. Fried said Smith brings extensive aviation and logistics experience alongside a strong understanding of air cargo.
Smith’s appointment comes as the sector manages changing trade requirements, geopolitical uncertainty and infrastructure pressures. His background across commercial aviation and humanitarian logistics provides experience of coordinating complex supply chains during periods of disruption.
