July 23, 2013
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Chief Operating Officer
"UPS has set a new business standard called synchronized commerce. With the widest portfolio of services in the industry, we move goods, information and funds precisely so our customers have the solutions they need to compete on the world stage. "
David Abney leads all operations for UPS, which is a global leader of logistics and the world's largest package delivery company. As chief operating officer, he has responsibility for UPS logistics, sustainability, and engineering.
In these roles, David directs all facets of the UPS transportation network serving more than 220 countries and territories. UPS's global transportation network includes a ground fleet of more than 90,000 vehicles, an air fleet of more than 500 aircraft, and Worldport, UPS's main air hub in Louisville, Kentucky. UPS Airlines also has major hubs in Cologne, Germany, and Shenzhen, China.
Prior to his current position, Abney served as president of UPS International, and he led UPS's strategic imperative to build global logistics capabilities. During his tenure, Abney oversaw many global acquisitions including those of the Fritz Companies, Stolica, Lynxs, and Sino-Trans in China.
He began his UPS career in 1974 as a part-time package loader. Over the years, he held various operational positions. He also served as president of SonicAir, a same-day delivery service that signaled UPS's move into the service parts logistics sector.
In addition to his corporate responsibilities, David is a Trustee of The UPS Foundation, UPS's charitable arm.
He is also a member of the Air Transport Association, the World Affairs Council of Atlanta, and the Coalition of Service Industries, which represents service businesses and seeks to lower barriers to world trade. Abney is a member of the board of directors of Johnson Controls, Inc.
A native of Greenwood, Miss., David received his bachelor's degree in business administration from Delta State University. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Delta State University Alumni Foundation, and he and his wife, Sherry, sponsor an annual symposium on international business at Delta State.