Southwest Airways has introduced that chairman and chief govt, Gary Kelly, will transition roles in early 2022, turning into the chief chairman of the low-cost provider.
Govt vice chairman company providers, Robert Jordan, will take up the function of chief govt from February subsequent yr.
Jordan additionally will be a part of the board.
“On behalf of the Southwest Airways board of administrators, I’m delighted to announce Bob Jordan as chief govt,” Kelly mentioned.
“Bob and I’ve labored facet by facet for greater than 30 years.
“He’s a gifted and skilled govt and well-prepared to tackle this essential function.
“Working intently with president, Tom Nealon, and chief working officer, Mike Van de Ven, we are going to start creating transition plans within the coming weeks and months.
“These three top-notch leaders make for a robust group to steer us ahead.”
Serving as chief govt since 2004, Kelly has led Southwest by way of some turbulent occasions.
He has made clear a want to serve within the function of govt chairman by way of to a minimum of 2026, on the discretion of the board of administrators.
Jordan, 60, is a long-time Southwest govt with broad and deep expertise.
Becoming a member of the airline in 1988, he has led quite a few vital transformational tasks, together with the acquisition of AirTran Airways, the event of a brand new e-commerce platform, the Speedy Rewards loyalty program and an enhanced boarding course of.
“I’m humbled, honoured and excited to be requested to function the following chief govt,” Jordan mentioned.
