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Robert E. Jordan

President, CEO, and Vice Chairman at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES
Board
Since February 2022
Age
64 years
Education
Holds an undergraduate degree in computer science and a master’s degree in business administration from Texas A&M University.
Tenure
Joined in 1988 and advanced through 15 diverse roles—including positions in Sales Accounting, Revenue, Finance, Technology, and Corporate Strategy—culminating in appointments as CEO in February 2022 and President in January 2023.

Also at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES

AMW
Andrew M. Watterson
EVP & COO
JVE
Jason Van Eaton
EVP, Chief Regulatory & Corporate Affairs
JN
Jeff Novota
VP General Counsel & Corporate Secretary

About

Robert E. Jordan has dedicated over three decades to Southwest Airlines, beginning his career in 1988 as a programmer. His early years involved working in technology and accounting roles, which laid the groundwork for a remarkably diverse career at the company.

Throughout his tenure, he has held 15 different positions, steadily climbing the corporate ladder. His roles have spanned from Sales Accounting Manager and Director of Revenue Accounting to Controller, Vice President of Purchasing and Technology, and several executive positions. His career progression reflects a deep commitment to the company's evolution, leading to his eventual appointment as CEO in February 2022 and later as President in January 2023.

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, he has been actively involved in industry advocacy and board service, contributing to groups such as Airlines for America, ShiftKey, and the Southwestern Medical Foundation. With a strong educational foundation and a wealth of professional accomplishments, he continues to steer the company with a focus on people-centric values and operational excellence.

$LUV Performance Under Robert E. Jordan

Past Roles

OrganizationRoleDate RangeDetails
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Executive Vice President & Incoming Chief Executive Officer June 2021 - February 2022
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Executive Vice President Corporate Services July 2017 - June 2021
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer September 2011 - July 2017
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Executive Vice President Strategy & Planning May 2008 - September 2011
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Executive Vice President Strategy & Technology September 2006 - May 2008
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Senior Vice President Enterprise Spend Management August 2004 - September 2006
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Vice President Technology 2002 - 2004
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Vice President Purchasing 2001 - 2002
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Controller 1997 - 2001
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Director Revenue Accounting 1994 - 1997
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Manager Sales Accounting 1990 - 1994
Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) Programmer 1988 - 1990 Joined the company as a Programmer in 1988

External Roles

OrganizationRoleDate Range
The Container Store Group, Inc. Director 2013 - Present