June 2023
Aviation Leadership Team Adds New Deputy Directors
The Phoenix Aviation Department – owner and operator of the three Phoenix airports: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Phoenix Deer Valley Airport and Phoenix Goodyear Airport – is excited to announce five new members added to the executive leadership team. The new Deputy Aviation Directors oversee key areas at the airports including Aviation Strategy, Policy and Administration, Business and Properties, Financial Management, Public Relations and Public Safety and Security.
Matt Heil, the Deputy Aviation Director for Strategy, Policy, and Administration, provides strategic direction and leadership over a number of significant program areas including: intergovernmental relations, regulatory affairs, Aviation protocol and diplomatic affairs, and implementation of the Aviation Department strategic plan. Over his more than 15 years with the city, Matt has held several positions across the city. In his most recent position in the Aviation Department Director’s Office, he led the implementation of a number of programs including the Airport worker child care scholarship program, and the introduction of the AIRA app to support travelers who are blind or low vision.
Richard Graham, the Deputy Aviation Director for Business and Properties, has been a valuable member of the team for the past three years serving as the as the Commercial Real Estate Business Manager. Richard has more than 26 years of airport experience including 15 years in a supervisor leadership capacity.
Andrew Durket, the Deputy Aviation Director for Financial Management, moved from the City of Phoenix Budget and Research Department where he served as the City’s Debt Manager. In his current role as Deputy Aviation Director, Andrew’s team sets the rates and charges for the airport, completes the Airport’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports, manages the Capital Improvement Projects and budget as well as the operating budget, and handles accounts receivable and billing.
Heather Shelbrack, the Deputy Aviation Director for Public Relations, has been a vital part of major events like the modernization of Terminal 3, our PHX Sky Train® launch, and multiple Super Bowls during her 15 years in the Aviation Department. Heather also serves as the vice chair of the Airports Council International – North America’s Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience Steering Group.
Adam Peterson, the Deputy Aviation Director for the Public Safety and Security division, has spent nearly two decades with the Aviation Department as an Operations supervisor and Airport Duty Manager. Adam has been influential in the development and implementation of multiple technology-related and cost-saving programs throughout the airport.