The new general manager will be charged with leading the busiest airport in the world, and one that's only getting bigger. The new GM’s top priority will be to complete the $1.4 billion international terminal, which will significantly change the way the airport operates.

Louis Miller of Tampa, John D. Clark III of Indianapolis and Lester Robinson of Detroit -- the three finalists identified by Reed's administration -- have all run large, successful airports and came to the table with a cargo load of accolades.

“The three finalists are three very talented airport directors who have managed airports in very difficult situations,” said Roy A. Williams, an airport consultant and former airport manager.

Miller, the only candidate who could be reached Wednesday, said he has not heard from Reed yet.

“I think the position is great and it’s one I’d really like to have,” said Miller, the former executive director and CEO of Tampa International Airport. “I think I’m the perfect candidate based on my background with large hub airports and with Delta.”

Before moving to Tampa, he managed the Salt Lake City airport, where Delta Air Lines has long had its primary western hub.

Clark has for the last year worked as the executive director and CEO of the Indianapolis Airport Authority. He is overseeing a new terminal at Indianapolis International Airport, which, while far smaller than Hartsfield-Jackson in terms of passenger volume, is also a FedEx cargo hub.

“John Clark has done a good job in Indianapolis. With his leadership, we are implementing a solid, forward-thinking business agenda and strategic plan that is designed to maximize our assets, develop new business, and achieve the greatest possible operational efficiency,” said Lacy M. Johnson, vice president of the Indianapolis Airport Authority board. “He has our full support and confidence.

Robinson managed the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and Willow Run Airport from 2002 until June of this year. At the Detroit airport, he oversaw a major expansion with two new terminals and a sixth runway.

The Wayne County Airport Authority decided to replace Robinson earlier this year, but at the same time, board chair Charlie Williams said in a written statement, "All of Southeast Michigan has benefited tremendously from Lester Robinson's leadership of transforming our region's airports -- a key economic engine -- from some of the worst in the nation to among the best in the world."

The new GM will replace Ben DeCosta, who ran city-owned Hartsfield-Jackson for a dozen years. After Reed took office this year, he did not extend DeCosta's contract past its expiration in June.