Fraport USA on Oct. 15, named Ellery Plowman as its new vice president of business development. Plowman brings more than 30 years of experience – primarily in the airport sector – to Fraport USA’s executive team. Her expertise covers retail management, operations, purchasing, commercial real estate leasing, and business development.
“Ellery Plowman’s depth of expertise and accomplishments in the airport concessions industry speaks volumes,” said Ben Zandi, president and CEO of Fraport USA. Her extensive experience covers airport retail operations, leasing and management. Plowman combines her expertise with a unique perspective on all aspects of airport retail business – ranging from her roles in management to overseeing ACDBE (Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) programs. Zandi added: “Her entrepreneurial drive will help fuel our vision of the future for airports. We are pleased to gain a creative professional of high caliber. We are delighted to welcome her to our Fraport USA team.”
Before joining Fraport USA, Ellery Plowman had formed her own consulting company, ellco llc – following a successful career with Westfield and Rosetta Stone. At ellco, she continued her focus on enhancing the passenger experience and maximizing revenue at major airports and other transportation venues in all phases of concession and concept development.
At Westfield’s airport concessions division, Plowman held the position of VP business development and leasing management – where she ensured her team exceeded company goals. Plowman’s efforts contributed to expanding the Westfield business and footprint at Chicago O’Hare Airport’s Terminal 5, as well as six terminals at Los Angeles International Airport – including the award-winning Tom Bradley International Terminal.
Prior to Westfield, Plowman pioneered the expansion strategy for Rosetta Stone retail in airports. In particular, she led the team responsible for lease negotiations and was pivotal in maintaining a healthy, profitable retail operation. Her combined experience in real estate and retail operations provided the foundation for a highly visible and profitable retail presence, which continues to thrive.
A graduate of Radford University, Plowman holds a bachelor’s degree, concentrating in marketing and merchandising. She has also attended executive and continuing education programs with the Virginia Board of Realtors, National Retail Federation, and International Council of Shopping Centers. Plowman is an active member of airport industry trade associations and is recognized as an expert guest speaker and panelist at leading industry conferences.
