Southwest board ‘confident’ in Bob Jordan’s leadership

Southwest said that its board is “confident” that there is no better leader than Bob Jordan to successfully execute Southwest Airlines’ “robust strategy” to evolve the airline and enhance sustainable Shareholder value. “Jordan is a 36-year industry veteran who has led the Company through some of its most turbulent times, while consistently driving transformational initiatives and innovation,” the company said. “Over Jordan’s tenure at the Company, he has led the acquisition and integration of AirTran Airways; was instrumental in the development of Southwest’s e-commerce platform; launched a new and highly successful Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards program; oversaw a wholesale refresh of the Southwest Airlines brand; led the expansion of the route network domestically and introduced international flights and, during the height of the pandemic, led efforts around voluntary retirement and leave programs that were critical to maintaining Southwest Airlines’ financial strength and sustainability. Jordan is implementing intentional changes to transform the business, meet evolving Customer preferences, enhance the Customer Experience, further modernize the airline, and drive Shareholder returns. During his tenure as CEO, Jordan has been the visionary and key driver behind the review and development of the commercial initiatives outlined at the airline’s second quarter financials and made substantial improvements to the airline’s operational performance, all with a commitment to driving improved financial performance. Introducing leadership change in the middle of Southwest Airlines’ largest transformation to-date would present significant risk to the Company and its Shareholders. The Board has high expectations for Jordan and the executive leadership team and will continue to hold them accountable for delivering results.”