Airmall USA announced the appointment of Ben Zandi as president and chief executive officer, overseeing the North American operations of parent company, Fraport, effective immediately.
"We are honored to have an accomplished business leader and innovator focused on our growth in North America and expanding our U.S. footprint," said Charles Weinland, chairman of the board of directors of Airmall. "Ben brings a depth of experience, tremendous energy and insight to our strategic vision. Our focus is on enhancing the customer and passenger 'breakthrough' experience at all of our airports. We and our airport partners are in excellent hands with Ben Zandi at the helm."
Zandi has more than 30 years of experience in hospitality, business management and retail and restaurant development and operations with a record of increasing shareholder value and exceeding revenue and profitability goals.
"Fraport is a major international player with an impressive wealth of knowledge, talent and resources," added Zandi. "I am passionately committed to positioning the Airmall brand for the 21st Century as best in class by creating breakthrough services, products and experiences to serve the shifting customer base. It's an exciting time."
Zandi joins Airmall following his role as executive vice president of operations of PGHC Inc., a privately owned restaurant company based in Dedham, Mass. with annual revenue of $250 million.
Prior to joining PGHC Inc., for 12 years, he owned and operated Zanick Inc., a regional restaurant group and consulting firm based in Bristol, Tenn., and grew the business to more than $15 million in annual revenue. He also served as director of operations of all retail, food and beverage concessions in major airports for Host Corporation by Marriott for 13 years.
Zandi's commitment to serving the community has included his leadership of nonprofit organizations and term as vice mayor and as city councilman of Bristol, Tenn. Giving back is a high priority in his new role. "I am honored to be able to touch the community in a profound way with our partners at the airports and local and small business owners," said Zandi. "This is a unique opportunity to create better airports and better communities."
Zandi is certified by the Management and Strategy Institute as a Six Sigma Black Belt Professional.
