The Star Alliance Chief Executive Board has elected Michael Rousseau as the new chairperson, succeeding Scott Kirby, CEO of United, who held the position since December 2020. Michael Rousseau is President and CEO of Air Canada, appointed February 2021.
Star Alliance’s New Chairperson
Star Alliance has elected Michael Rousseau as its new chairperson for the next two years. In his role as CEB Chairperson of the largest airline alliance in the world, Rousseau will lead during the two annual board meetings. He will also serve as the spokesperson for the board, steering the Alliance’s strategic course.
The establishment of the Star Alliance airline network dates back to 1997. Each CEO on the board represents each of the 25 global member airlines that make up the Star Alliance airline network.
Mr. Rousseau has provided comments on his new position.
“I am looking forward to working with the board over the next two years to continue our progressive work in delivering a seamless customer experience. At Star Alliance, we are committed to the vision of an effortlessly connected world, and I invite every member of our Alliance to join me in making this vision a reality in 2025 and beyond.”
Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias has congratulated Michael Rousseau on his new appointment, saying:
“I am delighted to welcome Michael Rousseau, one of the most seasoned CEOs on the board, as the new chairperson and look forward to working closely with him as we bring the renewed vision of the Alliance to fruition. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to Scott Kirby for his guidance and support of Star Alliance during his successful four-year term.”
Michael Rousseau was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada in February 2021. From January 2019, Rousseau served as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. He was behind numerous corporate initiatives, including Air Canada Rouge. Mr. Rousseau had a significant role in Air Canada’s transformation for more than a decade.
About Star Alliance
Star Alliance was the first global airline alliance, founded in 1997, drawing members from America, Europe, and Asia. Today they have 25 airline members, including Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, Turkish Airlines, and United. It offers an extensive airline network, with a focus on improving the customer experience throughout the journey.
The Star Alliance network currently offers 17,500 daily flights to over 1,150 airports in 189 countries. The alliance has gained a lot of recognition, including being named the World’s Leading Airline Alliance by the World Travel Awards.
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