Who is David Abney? - Former UPS Executive

Early Life and Education

David Abney began his journey in Greenwood, Mississippi, where he was born and raised. He pursued higher education at Delta State University, located in Cleveland, Mississippi. Delta State University is known for its strong programs in business, education, and the arts, and has a rich history of producing successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.

Career at UPS

Abney's career at UPS started in 1974 in a small facility in Greenwood, Mississippi, while he was still a student at Delta State University. He began as a part-time package loader, a humble position that laid the foundation for his future ascent within the company.

Moving Up the Ranks

Over the years, Abney took on various roles within UPS, demonstrating his versatility and leadership capabilities. He served as President of UPS International, where he led the company's strategic initiative to bolster its global logistics capabilities. During his tenure, he was instrumental in several global acquisitions, including the Fritz Companies, Stolica, Lynxs, and Sino-Trans in China, which expanded UPS's reach and services.

Chief Operating Officer

Before ascending to the company's top leadership positions, Abney held the role of Chief Operating Officer from 2007 to 2014. In this capacity, he oversaw logistics, sustainability, engineering, and the UPS transportation network, which serves over 220 countries and territories. He was responsible for managing a ground fleet of more than 96,000 vehicles and an air fleet of over 500 aircraft, with major air hubs in Louisville, Kentucky; Cologne, Germany; and Shenzhen, China.

CEO and Chairman of the Board

Abney's most notable roles at UPS were as CEO and Chairman of the Board. He succeeded Scott Davis as CEO on September 1, 2014, and became Chairman in 2016, becoming the 11th CEO in the company's history. His leadership was marked by a focus on expanding UPS's global logistics capabilities and ensuring the company's growth and sustainability.

Contributions and Community Involvement

Apart from his corporate responsibilities, Abney has been actively involved in various organizations. He serves as a Trustee of The UPS Foundation and as chairman of the World Affairs Council of Atlanta. He is also a member of the President's Export Council, the Board of Directors of Johnson Controls, and the Business Roundtable.

Abney's commitment to his alma mater is evident through his service on the Board of Directors of the Delta State University Alumni Foundation. He and his wife, Sherry, also sponsor the school's annual symposium on international business.

Retirement and Legacy

David Abney retired from his roles as CEO and Chairman of the Board at UPS in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and innovation in the logistics industry. His career at UPS, spanning over 43 years, is a testament to his dedication and impact on the company's growth and success.

Throughout his career, Abney has been recognized for his contributions to the industry and his commitment to safety, as evidenced by his support for the induction of 1,205 drivers into UPS's Circle of Honor. His activities on LinkedIn reflect his ongoing engagement with and support for the UPS community and the broader logistics industry.