Southwest CEO Gary Kelly to step down

Southwest Airways CEO Gary Kelly, 66, will phase down from his placement and “transition roles” to develop into government chairman, the business declared Wednesday.

Robert Jordan, Southwest’s govt vice president for company services will turn into the next CEO, starting off Feb. 1 following yr. He joined the airline in 1988 and served many key roles.

“Bob and I have worked aspect by side for additional than 30 a long time,” Kelly mentioned in a press release. “He is a gifted and knowledgeable executive and very well well prepared to consider on this vital role.”

Kelly has served as Southwest CEO because 2004, overseeing the airline’s 1st international routes, the acquisition of AirTran Airways and bringing the Boeing 737 Max into its fleet.

In the airline’s 50-year record, it has by no means experienced a one layoff or furlough — even during the coronavirus pandemic. Most not long ago, incoming CEO Jordan was in charge of the firm’s voluntary depart and early separation applications, which were being “instrumental in staying away from layoffs and furlough actions,” the enterprise claimed on Wednesday.

“I am humbled, honored, and excited to be questioned to serve as the subsequent CEO,” Jordan claimed. “The Coronary heart of Southwest is our People today they make the difference for our Buyers, and I appear forward to serving them.”