Southwest Airlines Announces Leadership Changes

Image: A row of Southwest Airlines planes. (photo via SkyCaptain86/iStock Editorial/Getty Images Plus)
Image: A row of Southwest Airlines planes. (photo via SkyCaptain86/iStock Editorial/Getty Images Plus)
Donald Wood
by Donald Wood
Last updated: 8:45 AM ET, Mon December 6, 2021

Southwest Airlines announced several major leadership changes and appointments within various departments, including operational, marketing and technology.

The carrier announced Justin Jones has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Operational Strategy & Design, a newly created role. He previously served as the Vice President of Technical Operations Planning and Performance.

As a result of Jones' promotion, Southwest's current Managing Director of Business Transformation, Angela Marano, has been promoted to Vice President of Business Transformation.

In the marketing department, Jonathan Clarkson was recently promoted from Managing Director to Vice President of Marketing, Loyalty, & Products. He was previously responsible for overseeing general management responsibilities for the airline's frequent flyer program and other partnerships.

Southwest also announced changes in the technology department, with Jim Dayton transitioning to Vice President of Cybersecurity and Chief Information Security Officer. He was promoted following the departure of former Managing Director of Chief Information Security Officer Michael Simmons.

In addition, the airline revealed John Herlihy was promoted from Managing Director to Vice President Technology Operations and Enterprise Initiative Delivery.

Last week, Southwest announced it would continue its 50th-anniversary celebration with the release of a new commemorative book, "50 Years. One Heart. A History of Southwest in 50 Objects."


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Donald Wood

Donald Wood

Managing Editor

Donald Wood is TravelPulse’s Managing Editor, bringing nearly 15 years of experience to the desk. He currently lives outside Philadelphia with his wife and two children.

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