Jeffery Alan “Jeff” Smisek (born 17 August 1954) is an American businessman and investor who currently serves as the president of GOOSE Capital, on the board of trustees of Rice University and on the board of directors of Finch Therapeutics.

Does Continental Airlines still exist?

Continental Airlines, Inc., former U.S.-based airline that served North American and overseas destinations via hubs mainly in New York, New York; Cleveland, Ohio; Houston, Texas; and Guam. After a merger with United Airlines, it ceased operations under its own name in 2012.

Who is the CEO of United?

Scott Kirby (May 2020–)
United Airlines/CEO
During the pandemic, it’s been noticeable how United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has stood apart from some of his competitors, by striking a tone of “realism” about the future, as opposed to “optimism.”

How did United Airlines get its name?

United traces its roots to Varney Air Lines (VAL), which Walter Varney founded in 1926 in Boise, Idaho. Continental Airlines is the successor to Speed Lanes, which Varney had founded by 1932 and whose name changed to Varney Speed Lines in 1934. as a holding company for its airline subsidiaries.

Who is the current CEO of Continental Airlines?

Gordon Bethune. Gordon M. Bethune (born August 29, 1941) is a retired US airline executive. He was the CEO of Continental Airlines from 1994 until his retirement at the end of 2004. He formerly served on the boards of Honeywell and Prudential Financial.

When did Gordon Bethune become CEO of American Airlines?

Bethune later becomes the airline’s CEO in November 1994 and was elected chairman of the board of directors in 1996. BusinessWeek magazine named Bethune one of the top 25 Global Managers in 1996 and 1997.

How did Continental Airlines turn its business around?

Brenneman attributes Continental’s turnaround to five operating principles, which incorporate the key components of any successful strategy—markets, products, finances, and people. “None will knock your socks off,” he acknowledges, but all are well worth considering for any company. 1. File your flight plan and track your progress.

What was the name of Gordon Bethune’s book?

Bethune released his book, From Worst to First: Behind the Scenes of Continental’s Remarkable Comeback, in 1999 detailing his time at that carrier. Following his career with Continental, Bethune went on to serve as the non-executive chairman of the board for the former Aloha Airlines.