Southwest Airlines has made a significant move in its corporate structure by appointing Aileen Furlong as the new vice president of sales, commencing on January 6. A seasoned professional with extensive experience in the airline industry, Furlong is stepping in to lead Southwest Business, a branch dedicated to cultivating relationships with large corporate clients, government entities, and educational institutions. This transition follows the departure of Dave Harvey, who played a crucial role in establishing groundwork for the department before leaving in May. The selection of Furlong reflects Southwest’s commitment to enhancing its commercial strategies in a shifting airline landscape.
A key factor mentioned by Southwest’s COO, Andrew Watterson, in Furlong’s appointment is her impressive background — she has dedicated over two decades to United Airlines, holding a variety of positions that encompass sales, customer experience, and marketing. Her most recent role as managing director of global corporate sales positioned her well to tackle the responsibilities at Southwest Business. Watterson articulated that the hiring process was intentionally deliberate, aiming to find a candidate who not only has specific airline sales expertise but one who can adapt to the evolving necessities of the industry. As Southwest Airlines embarks on initiatives such as assigned seating and premium cabin offerings, having a leader like Furlong at the helm signifies their readiness to adapt to these innovations.
Transformative Changes on the Horizon
The airline is undergoing a transformative period that aims to modernize its offerings. According to Watterson, the introduction of assigned seating and additional legroom will signal a “new world” for Southwest Airlines. This evolution is not merely about enhancing passenger comfort but also about refining the business strategy to appeal to corporate clients who prioritize quality and service. The strategy prioritizes broadening the appeal of Southwest Business, harnessing Furlong’s knowledge and skills to position the airline as a competitive player in the corporate travel sector.
Furlong’s integration into Southwest will not culminate in isolation; she is expected to work closely with other key executives currently serving the airline. Her immediate supervisor, Watterson, will oversee her efforts until the company appoints a senior vice president and chief revenue officer. This eventual appointee will play a crucial role in aligning revenue strategies across the board, coordinating the efforts of Furlong alongside recent hires in the revenue management and pricing sectors.
The hiring of Aileen Furlong is a significant step for Southwest Airlines as it seeks to solidify its foothold in the corporate travel market. By leveraging an experienced leader with a proven track record, Southwest aims not only to navigate the complexities of the modern airline industry but also to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. With Furlong’s leadership and the strategic restructuring underway, Southwest Business is poised for success.
Leave a Reply