Leslie Bresnaider is a licensed U.S. Customs Broker and logistics executive with more than 30 years of experience navigating the complexities of international trade. She currently serves as National Director of Customs Brokerage and Compliance at Savino Del Bene USA, where she leads high-performing teams, drives operational modernization, and ensures regulatory excellence in an increasingly complex global environment. She also serves as President of the JFK Airport Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association, representing and advocating for the customs brokerage and freight forwarding community at John F. Kennedy International Airport—one of the world’s most dynamic cargo gateways. A respected industry voice, Leslie is committed to strengthening collaboration between government and trade stakeholders while mentoring the next generation of women leaders in aviation and logistics.
How did you begin your career in aviation or at the airports?
Leslie Bresnaider: I began my career in aviation unexpectedly. After graduating from Cornell University, I worked in the export department for a fabric company shipping globally through a freight forwarder. When I decided to return to school and needed part-time work, that same forwarder hired me for administrative support. Over time, the owner recognized my interest in the business and offered to sponsor my customs broker education. I passed the broker’s exam, brought the customs brokerage function in-house, and ultimately became Vice President of Customs Brokerage for the company. What began as a temporary role evolved into a long-term leadership career in international trade and airport logistics.
Did you have a mentor at the start of your career? Can you share your experience with them and how they influenced your career?
Leslie Bresnaider: I have been fortunate to have several mentors. The owner of my first company invested in my education and encouraged me to obtain my broker’s license. He taught me the technical and commercial foundations of the business and set high expectations for professionalism and accountability. Later, through the JFK Airport Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association, I met two women who owned their own companies and went on to become Presidents of the Association. They welcomed me onto the Board and demonstrated through action that women’s leadership in our industry carries both authority and impact. Their example reinforced the importance of representation and advocacy.
How has networking and involvement in the airport community benefited your career?
Leslie Bresnaider: Networking has been instrumental in my development. My first company was small, and there were limited internal resources to draw upon. By joining an international agent network, I attended conferences around the world and gained broader insight into global trade practices and cultural perspectives. I also became active in both local and national customs broker associations. Building those relationships required intentional effort, but over time it created a trusted professional network across the country. At the local level, engagement allows us to work directly with U.S. Customs and other government agencies, as well as carriers, terminal operators, and airport stakeholders, to resolve operational challenges collaboratively.
Are you a member of any civic or business groups related to the local airport?
Leslie Bresnaider: I currently serve as President of the JFK Airport Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The Association represents the customs brokerage and freight forwarding community and works closely with federal agencies and airport leadership to address regulatory, operational, and modernization initiatives affecting cargo operations.
What is the most memorable moment in your aviation career or at the airports?
Leslie Bresnaider: What makes this career compelling is that no two days are alike. Over the years, we have navigated major Customs system transitions, the closure of airports and seaports during Hurricane Sandy, labor disruptions, a global pandemic, and ongoing tariff volatility. Each disruption requires adaptability, technical precision, and coordinated leadership.
At the same time, some of the most memorable moments come from the unexpected. I have met clients at the airport to personally facilitate the clearance of hand-carried emergency fashion show pieces hours before an event. During COVID, our team worked tirelessly to clear masks and other critical PPE for emergency responders and essential workers. I have even overseen the export of a live crocodile to the Philippines. Successfully guiding teams and clients through both crisis and complexity has been one of the most defining aspects of my career.
What measures has your company implemented to attract qualified workers?
Leslie Bresnaider: Attracting qualified professionals requires a clear value proposition. We focus on structured training, education and licensing support, mentorship, and exposure to technology-driven processes that modernize customs brokerage. We work hard to create meaningful career pathways that appeal to individuals seeking long-term professional growth.
How are the insights of women in leadership roles important in fostering innovation and commitment to sustainability and inclusivity?
Leslie Bresnaider: Diverse leadership strengthens strategic thinking and drives better business outcomes. Women in executive roles contribute different perspectives that enhance collaboration, which is essential in logistics. Inclusive environments foster innovation because they encourage a broader dialogue and make room for new ideas.
At my previous company, I was one of the few women in upper management. Recognizing the need for connection and mutual support, I established a Women’s Forum to bring together female managers across the organization. We met several times a year to build relationships and support one another’s professional development and career goals. Inclusivity does not happen organically. It requires intention and leadership commitment.
Savino Del Bene
149-10 183rd Street
Jamaica, NY 11413
www.savinodelbene.com
