United Airlines recently announced a major change that will impact airline operations. Oscar Munoz has been CEO since September 2015. His tenure as chief executive is set to end after nearly five years, in May 2020. Munoz will transition to the role of executive chairman of the board of directors for United Airlines Holdings, Inc.
J. Scott Kirby, current president, is poised to take over as the new CEO. Kirby joined the airline in August 2016 after more than 30 years in the industry.
“With United in a stronger position than ever, now is the right time to begin the process of passing the baton to a new leader,” Munoz said. “One of my goals as CEO was to put in place a successful leadership transition for United Airlines.”
“I am honored to be named the next CEO of United and to succeed Oscar, whose leadership has been truly transformational for United Airlines,” Kirby said.
The transition extends beyond Munoz and Kirby to the board of directors. Current chairman Jane Garvey served on the airline’s board for more than a decade and retires in May. Munoz will then serve as executive chairman for one year. Ted Philip is set to become the lead independent director. Philip joined the board in 2016 and chairs the board’s nominating and governance committee.
Changes will go into effect following United’s annual meeting of shareholders, scheduled for May 20, 2020.
Do you think Munoz did a good job leading United? Do you hope to see Kirby take the airline in a new direction? Tell us. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.
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