Southwest Airlines has made a significant move by appointing Aileen Furlong as its new Vice President of Sales, effective January 6. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the airline, particularly as it aims to enhance its corporate sales strategy. Furlong replaces Dave Harvey, who left the company in May, and her appointment comes at a crucial time as Southwest transitions into a new operational model featuring assigned seating and premium cabins. The airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Watterson, emphasized that this role is vital as Southwest ventures into more competitive territory, catering to larger organizations, including corporations, government bodies, and universities.
Watterson pointed out that Southwest was deliberate in selecting the right candidate for this key position. The company sought someone with a solid background in airline sales and broader commercial airline experience. With the shift towards a more conventional airline structure, the integration of these elements is critical for guiding Southwest Business towards future growth. „We spent the last few years under Dave Harvey building out a proper function,“ Watterson stated. This indicates that the groundwork has been laid, and now the company is poised to leverage new industry standards under Furlong’s leadership.
Aileen Furlong’s extensive background in the airline industry spans over two decades, primarily with United Airlines, where she held various roles focusing on sales, customer experience, and marketing. Most recently, she served as the Managing Director of Global Corporate Sales, a role that equipped her with insights and skills that will be beneficial for Southwest. Furlong’s recognition as one of the Top 50 Women in Travel by the Global Business Travel Association is a testament to her capabilities and potential to drive success at Southwest Airlines.
Southwest Airlines is entering a transformative phase characterized by its commitment to customer experience and corporate relations. The introduction of assigned seating and extra legroom represents a departure from the airline’s traditional practices, aiming to capture a larger share of the business travel market. Furlong’s appointment is aligned with this ambitious objective, and her expertise will help steer the airline through these uncharted waters.
Furlong will report directly to Watterson until the airline secures a Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer. This new role will not only provide oversight for Furlong but will also encompass additional key positions within the company’s revenue management and pricing strategies. The recruitment reflects a broader strategy to cement Southwest’s presence in the corporate travel space, which could very well reshape its industry standing going forward, especially as it faces an increasingly competitive landscape.
Aileen Furlong’s appointment is more than just a personnel change; it symbolizes Southwest Airlines’ intent to adapt and thrive in a transformed industry. The potential outcomes of her leadership could redefine what business travelers come to expect from Southwest in the future, marking an exciting chapter for both the airline and its clients.
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