Airforwarders Association Appointed Steve Smith CEO
The trade association named Steve Smith as its new Chief Executive Officer following Brandon Fried’s 21-year tenure.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in People
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The Airforwarders Association has selected Steve Smith to serve as its new Chief Executive Officer. He succeeds outgoing leader Brandon Fried, who will remain with the organization through a transition period.
Why it matters
The leadership change at the Airforwarders Association marks a significant shift in direction for the industry advocacy group. Smith brings extensive experience in logistics and humanitarian aid, having previously led Airlink for 13 years.
During his tenure at Airlink, Smith helped the organization reach nearly $20 million in revenue and facilitated aid across 100 countries. He also collaborated with 250 humanitarian groups to respond to over 200 disasters.
The players
Steve Smith
He is the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Airforwarders Association and former leader of Airlink.
Brandon Fried
He is the outgoing leader of the Airforwarders Association who served the organization for 21 years.
Airforwarders Association
This is a professional trade organization representing companies in the air cargo and freight logistics industry.
Airlink
This is a non-profit organization that coordinates logistics and transportation resources to support disaster relief efforts.
The details
Steve Smith joins the association after holding a senior commercial role at Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace. He brings 25 years of overall leadership experience to the position, having managed operations involving more than 50 airlines and logistics companies.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: The Airforwarders Association announced the appointment of Steve Smith.
October 26-29, 2026: Smith and Fried will attend the Air Cargo Forum in Miami.
Market Landscape
This transition reflects a broader trend of long-term leadership stability within major logistics trade groups. The move positions the Airforwarders Association to integrate fresh commercial aerospace experience into its ongoing industry advocacy efforts.
Industry stakeholders and logistics professionals can expect continuity as the association manages the leadership handoff. Members and partners should anticipate standard operations during this transition period.
The takeaway
The appointment of a seasoned executive with a background in both commercial aerospace and humanitarian logistics signals a strategic evolution for the association. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming industry forums for further updates regarding the new executive vision.
What happens next
Steve Smith and Brandon Fried are scheduled to attend and be available for interviews at the Air Cargo Forum in Miami, which takes place from October 26 to October 29, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership changes within the industry on our People page.
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