Southwest is reshuffling and realigning its leadership ranks as it enters the busy summer travel season.
The airline announced Friday that Executive Vice President of Operations Justin Jones has been appointed chief commercial officer. Chief Operating Officer Andrew Watterson, who previously led both operations and commercial, will focus solely on operations and safety going forward, officials said.
In his new role, Jones will lead network and capacity planning, revenue management, pricing, Southwest Business, and airport affairs, and will be responsible for advancing “an integrated commercial strategy” that supports revenue growth. He will report directly to Southwest President and CEO Bob Jordan.
The new allocation of duties will help improve organizational focus on both operations and commercial performance, Southwest said.
Chief Customer and Brand Officer Tony Roach will also begin reporting directly to the CEO. Chief People Officer Elizabeth Bryant and Southwest’s people, learning, and development organization will report to Roach and work more closely with the customer and brand organization, with the aim of enhancing customer experience.
“These changes position us to move forward with greater clarity, stronger execution, and deeper connection across our company,” Jordan said in a news release.
The shakeup comes as Southwest continues to move away from its former low-cost business model. The airline has made significant and sometimes controversial changes over the last year, including the introduction of assigned seating and checked bag fees.
At the Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference last week, Jordan said Southwest is looking at adding long-haul international flights.
