In a strategic move signaling a new chapter for Southwest Airlines, the company has appointed Aileen Furlong as the vice president of sales, effective January 6. This decision comes in the wake of the departure of Dave Harvey, who held the position until May. As the head of Southwest Business, Furlong will be responsible for managing sales to key corporate clients, government entities, and educational institutions—a critical branch of the airline’s operations that has evolved significantly in recent years.
With a robust track record spanning over two decades at United Airlines, Furlong brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. Her tenure at United covered a range of responsibilities, including sales strategies, customer relations, marketing initiatives, and loyalty programs. Most notably, her recent role as managing director of global corporate sales saw her steering strategies that directly influenced the airline’s engagement with large-scale clients. This rich background makes her well-equipped to lead Southwest Business into an era marked by enhanced services such as assigned seating and extra legroom—new offerings aimed at appealing to corporate travelers.
Southwest’s Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Watterson, expressed optimism regarding Furlong’s ability to spearhead the airline’s sales division, particularly as Southwest navigates this transitional phase. The airline’s shift towards a more conventional business model—complete with assigned seating and premium cabin options—reflects a broader strategy to meet evolving customer expectations within the competitive airline industry. Watterson noted that Furlong’s diverse skill set aligns with the company’s aspirations during this pivotal phase.
The decision to hire Furlong was not made lightly. Watterson emphasized the necessity of finding a candidate with substantial airline sales experience, coupled with a deep understanding of commercial aviation dynamics, to ensure a seamless transition. He acknowledged the importance of patience in this selection process, highlighting that the airline aimed to recruit an individual who not only possesses relevant expertise but can also facilitate meaningful connections with corporate and governmental clients.
As Furlong steps into her role, she will initially report directly to Watterson until Southwest completes its search for a new senior vice president and chief revenue officer. This upcoming leader will play a vital part in shaping the broader strategic vision of the airline, overseeing Furlong’s work in sales alongside other key executives such as the vice president of revenue management and the vice president of pricing, who have both recently joined the team.
Aileen Furlong’s appointment is a strategic evolution for Southwest Airlines, indicative of the company’s commitment to enhance its business operations and broaden its service offerings. Through her leadership, Southwest aims to solidify its standing as a premier choice for business travelers, setting the stage for future growth and innovation.