Port of Oakland names Craig Simon Acting Director of Aviation
Industry veteran will oversee Oakland International Airport
Oakland, Calif. – May 2, 2023: This week, Craig Simon begins as Acting Director of Aviation. This follows the departure of Port of Oakland Director of Aviation Bryant L. Francis. Mr. Simon, a veteran with over 22 years in the airport industry, has served OAK as the Assistant Director of Aviation for two and a half years. In that role, Mr. Simon was responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the day-to-day operations of OAK.
Prior to his promotion to Assistant Director of Aviation in October of 2020, Mr. Simon served OAK as Facilities Manager and Airside Operations Superintendent for a combined eight years. Before joining the Port of Oakland, Mr. Simon worked at San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) for 11 years where he held multiple positions leading airside activities, airport operations, noise abatement, ground transportation, and parking control.
“It is my honor to take on the responsibilities of Acting Director of Aviation during this period of transition at OAK,” says Craig Simon. “Our airport is undergoing growth and transition on all sides of our business. I look forward to leading our team to an even brighter future during my time as Acting Director here at OAK. I’d like to thank Bryant for his seven years of service as Aviation Director and for his strategic leadership bringing us to where we are today.”
“The Port thanks Director Francis for his 7 years of service at OAK and recognizes the strong team in place at the Airport.” said Kristi McKenney, Port of Oakland Chief Operating Officer. “We are pleased to appoint Craig Simon to the role of Acting Director of Aviation and look forward to his leadership of the Aviation Division team as they continue to deliver a safe, secure, reliable and convenient airport experience.”
Mr. Simon holds a baccalaureate degree in Aviation Operations and Aviation Maintenance Management from San Jose State University. He is an Airport Certified Employee (ACE) in both Airfield Operations and Airfield Lighting Maintenance through the American Association of Airport Executives. He is also an instrument-rated private pilot.