Wilmington’s ATSG announces immediate leadership transition

Wilmington-based Air Transport Services Group Inc. has announced a series of leadership changes.

Joe Hete, who served as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive, has been appointed executive chairman; Mike Berger, who served as president, has been appointed CEO and a member of the company’s board; and Jeffrey Dominick, who served as a member of the board, was appointed president.

These changes were effective immediately, the air transport and leasing company said Tuesday.

Randy Rademacher, the company’s lead independent director, said in a statement that the moves demonstrate “our deep bench of talent at both the executive and board level. Last year we were fortunate to have Joe step back into the CEO role at an important time for ATSG, and we are pleased he will continue to play a key role in guiding the company forward as executive chairman. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his extensive knowledge, distinguished leadership, and insights as we position ATSG for the future.”

In 2020, Hete stepped down as chief executive of ATSG, being replaced by Rich Corrado.

Hete, then 65, was expected to remain on ATSG’s board and to be elected chairman on his retirement.

Hete had served as president, CEO and a director of ATSG since 2003, and for 20 years prior to that in management at ABX Air, Inc., including serving as its president.

ATSG provides aircraft leasing and cargo and passenger air transportation services for domestic and international air carriers, as well as companies seeking outsourced airlift services.

As the pandemic strengthened e-commerce, ATSG was able to take advantage of that, cementing a relationship with Amazon that has gotten stronger recently.

Last month, ATSG announced an agreement to operate ten additional Boeing 767 freighters for Amazon.com Services LLC in the Amazon Air network by the end of 2024. The operating agreement through which ATSG’s airlines operate those aircraft will be extended to May 2029, with extension rights for five additional years, the company said.

ATSG’s fleet includes the Boeing 767, Airbus A321, and Airbus A330 converted freighters.

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