The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board of Directors voted on November 12th to appoint Michael Stephens, Tampa International Airport’s (TPA) Executive Vice President and General Counsel, as its next Chief Executive Officer. Stephens, 52, becomes the first Black CEO in the airport’s history and only the fourth to hold the position.
The decision, reached after nine months of planning and discussion, was finalized by a 4-1 vote during a Special Board Meeting. Stephens was one of four internal candidates considered, including Executive Vice Presidents John Tiliacos, Chris Minner, and Damian Brooke. After a rigorous selection process, Stephens and Tiliacos emerged as the final contenders.
Leading TPA into the Future
Once his contract is finalized, Stephens will oversee more than 670 employees responsible for managing and operating TPA, as well as Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive, and Plant City airports. His leadership will shape the airport’s future, focusing on expanding infrastructure beyond Airside D, integrating advanced technology, and ensuring financial and environmental sustainability.
“Tampa International Airport is a beloved institution and an industry icon,” Stephens said in a statement. “It will be an incredible honor to follow in Joe’s footsteps and lead some of the best talent in the business. I’m thankful to the Board and our community for this opportunity to build onto the TPA legacy.”
Extensive Experience in Aviation and Leadership
Stephens brings nearly 25 years of experience in legal, compliance, human resources, and cybersecurity. As General Counsel, he has provided legal advice to TPA’s leadership and Board members, while also overseeing IT services, risk management, and business diversity programs.
His career began with active-duty service in the U.S. Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller, followed by a role as a Captain and Trial Counsel in the U.S. Army JAG Corps. In this capacity, he was appointed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, further honing his legal and leadership expertise.
Stephens is nationally recognized for his work in cybersecurity and data privacy, having testified before Congress twice on critical infrastructure protection. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Pace Center for Girls and is a member of the Airport Council International’s Legal Steering Committee.
Educational Background
Stephens earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Morehouse College, a Juris Doctor from American University’s Washington College of Law, and a Master of Arts in International Affairs from the School of International Service at American University. He also completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.
Transition and Timeline
The Board will negotiate Stephens’ compensation and benefits, as well as establish a transition plan. Current CEO Joe Lopano will retire at the end of his contract in April 2025.
“Michael has been one of the most brilliant and well-rounded professionals I’ve ever worked with,” Lopano said. “I have no doubt that he will not only lead this organization through any challenge but also take it to new heights as we enter the next era of aviation.”
Stephens’ appointment marks a significant milestone for TPA as it prepares for the future while continuing its reputation as an industry leader.
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