Rakesh Gangwal steps down as independent Chair, remains on the Board. Doug Brooks appointed as new independent Chair. Board forms new Ad Hoc Fleet Oversight Committee
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Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today announced that effective August 1, 2025, Doug Brooks will assume the role of independent Chair of the Board. This follows the decision by Rakesh Gangwal to step down from his position as Chair on the same date, citing additional time commitments unrelated to the airline. At the same time, the Board has created a new Fleet Oversight Committee to enhance its governance of the Company’s aircraft acquisition strategy. Gangwal will continue as a member of the Board, chairing the new Fleet Oversight Committee, and will also remain on both the Finance Committee and the Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee.
Reflecting on his tenure, Gangwal stated: “In just one year, Southwest has carried out a sweeping transformation of its business model, setting a strong foundation for future growth. Few companies are willing to make such bold and fundamental changes to long-standing practices for the benefit of all stakeholders. The transformation of Southwest Airlines is well on track. Bob Jordan and the leadership team deserve immense recognition for their dedication and ability to create lasting value. I am encouraged by the Company’s current direction and momentum and am pleased that Doug will now lead the Board through this next phase. I look forward to continuing to contribute as an engaged director while overseeing the newly formed Fleet Oversight Committee.”
Doug Brooks commented: “It is a profound honor to serve as Chair at such a pivotal time in Southwest’s history. The Board is well-equipped to guide the Company’s strategic agenda and to support its ongoing mission of delivering exceptional financial performance. I look forward to working closely with Rakesh in his continuing capacity as a director.”
Southwest Airlines President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman of the Board, Bob Jordan, added: “Doug is a proven leader with a strong record of creating value for shareholders and a deep understanding of Southwest’s heritage and vision for the future. I am very grateful to Rakesh for his exceptional leadership, foresight, and unwavering commitment. Under his guidance, the Board has pushed our leadership team to pursue progress with focus and urgency, driving our Company forward. His insight and experience will remain an invaluable asset to Southwest.”
Brooks has been a member of the Southwest Airlines Board since 2010. He previously held leadership roles at Brinker International, Inc., a global portfolio of restaurants, where he served as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Earlier, Brooks also served as Chief Operating Officer and President of Chili’s Grill & Bar. During his time at Brinker, he led efforts to optimize the company’s portfolio, divesting interests in multiple restaurant brands to concentrate on two primary restaurant concepts. In addition, Brooks has served on the boards of several public companies, including AutoZone, Inc., where shareholder returns exceeded 450% during his tenure. He is also a member of the Professional Advisory Board of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
About Southwest Airlines Co.
Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the most respected and decorated airlines in the world, offering its signature value and Hospitality at 117 airports across 11 countries. Since its launch in 1971, the airline has remained committed to making air travel accessible through friendly, dependable, and low-cost service. Today, Southwest carries more nonstop domestic air travelers in the United States than any other airline. The Company’s more than 71,000 Employees, as of March 31, 2025, remain the cornerstone of its reputation, serving over 140 million Customers in 2024 with dedication and heart. Southwest continues to build on its mission to serve global communities by leveraging the power of its People and its Purpose.
Learn more at Southwest.com/citizenship.
Based on U.S. Department of Transportation quarterly Airline Origin & Destination Survey, Q4 2024.
Employee count based on full-time equivalent active Employees as of March 31, 2025.
SOURCE: Southwest Airlines Co.
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