American Airlines on Monday announced what it called an “expanded role” for EVP and strategic advisor Steve Johnson, naming him vice chair and chief strategy officer. Johnson upon the Sept. 30 retirement of Derek Kerr, announced Friday, will have responsibility for American Eagle and cargo, according to the carrier.
Johnson also “will continue to provide counsel to the CEO and the board of directors and collaborate with the senior leadership team on key markets and competition issues; corporate governance, corporate purpose and sustainability; policy development and external affairs; and labor relations strategy,” according to the carrier.
“This is part of our long-term plan to continue strengthening our senior leadership team,” American CEO Robert Isom said in a statement.
Johnson joined America West Airlines in 1995 and stayed with the company through mergers with US Airways and American. From 2009 until 2022, he served as EVP of corporate affairs.
