AFA’s Next CEO: The Search Is On 

The search for the Air & Space Forces Association’s next President & CEO is underway, and the search committee is casting a wide net over the next 30 days to identify as many qualified candidates as possible. 

AFA President & CEO Lt. Gen. Bruce Wright, (USAF, Ret.), earlier this month announced his intent to retire in 2024. AFA Chair of the Board Bernie Skoch appointed a committee of seven to identify his replacement. The search committee is chaired by retired Gen. Robin Rand, and includes the 14th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Gerald Murray; the 19th Secretary of the Air Force Whit Peters; Retired Brig. Gen. Sandy Schlitt (all past AFA Chairs of the Board), along with Board Member Gabbe Kearney, retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Kim Crider, and AFA Chaplain and retired Air Force Chief of Chaplains Maj. Gen. Stephen A. Schaick.

Rand said the committee is focused on candidates who can exhibit these eight attributes: 

  • Love for the Department of the Air Force’s mission, for Airmen and Guardians
  • Commitment to and understanding of the department’s core values
  • Proven leadership running and leading a staff
  • Ability to encourage, influence, empower those serving in a volunteer organization
  • Experience in directing budget planning and execution
  • Experience and ability to work with senior industry executives 
  • Confidence and experience in working with Congressional members and staffs
  • Experience and credibility with DAF leaders and senior retired DAF members active in Association affairs
  • Volunteer experience 

To be considered or to recommend candidates, contact Committee Liaison Miranda Roberts by Jan. 13, 2024, at mroberts@afa.org.