The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) announced the promotion of Atif Elkadi to deputy executive director, a newly created position in which he will play an expanded role in the operation and administration of the airport.
A seasoned professional with extensive senior-level experience in strategic marketing, brand management and customer service communications, Elkadi has been chief commercial officer for Ontario International Airport (ONT), responsible for a broad portfolio of communication activities including community engagement, social media, marketing, advertising and public relations. Elkadi joined ONT in November 2017.
Elkadi will maintain his current responsibilities for marketing, communications and external affairs.
“Atif envisioned and implemented an effective strategic communications program which established a clear voice and strong brand identity for Ontario,” said Mark Thorpe, OIAA’s chief executive officer. “From the moment he started at ONT it was clear that his airport experience stretched beyond communications with his intricate understanding of building a culture, stakeholder management and understanding what is needed to build a world class gateway airport.”
Elkadi expressed appreciation for the vote of confidence from the OIAA commission and Thorpe.
“I have dedicated my life to communications and aviation and have had the privilege to work in fast-paced airport environments around the world,” Elkadi said. “I am humbled by the faith shown in me by the OIAA leadership and I believe in their vision for our airport. I am gratified to be part of an outstanding team of professionals who are devoted to building a first-rate aviation gateway in Southern California. The sky is the limit at ONT.”
Elkadi, 41, was previously senior corporate communications manager at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport where he developed the airport’s communications strategy and implemented its strategic communications initiatives. He also managed internal communications, customer service communications and social media for Dubai International Airport.
A native of Napa, Elkadi is married with six children, holds a Master’s degree in Communication Management from the University of Southern California, Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.