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“Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered” is our podcast that we use to facilitate connections and illuminate solutions to common problems within the parking and mobility industry.
We aim to do so by highlighting the voices of experts in the space, discussing trends and forward-looking technological innovations, and providing professional food for thought. All in an effort to help one another get better at what we know is harder than it looks…parking a car.
Today, we’re rewinding and recapping Episode 43: Hire for Heart, Train for Skill: Dean Ahmad’s Recipe for Leadership
In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Dean Ahmad – Vice President of Parking and Transportation at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport.
Dean brings over 25 years of experience in the airport parking and transportation industries. Dean shares stories from his entrepreneurial beginnings to his time strategically managing parking and transportation at one of the busiest airports in the world. He offers a look into the dynamics of his 300+ member team, the importance of building strong relationships with all team members, and recognizing the individual and collective accomplishments that are achieved.
Meet Our Guest:
Dean Ahmad
Vice President of Parking and Transportation at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport
Dean Ahmad has served as the Vice President of Parking and Transportation at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW) since August 2021. With over 27 years of experience in customer service and marketing, Dean leads a team of 300+ employees, overseeing strategic direction and customer service efforts within the airport. His accomplishments include implementing the yield management system at DFW and helping to establish one of the world’s largest valet parking operations. Dean has been a member of the DFW team for over 25 years.
You Won’t Want to Miss These Clips:
Episode Highlights:
- Dean’s entrepreneurial beginnings in antiques and furniture [00:02:49]
- Career transition to airport parking industry [00:08:00]
- Leadership philosophy and importance of relationships [00:14:00]
- Organizational alignment strategies and town halls [00:19:00]
- Hiring philosophy and employee development approach [00:25:00]
- Implementation of frontline development plans [00:28:00]
- Employee engagement and recognition through awards [00:33:00]
- Innovation approach and cashless implementation [00:39:00]
- Lightning round questions [00:43:00]
- Dean’s vision for improving public perception of parking [00:47:00]
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