Southwest Airlines has appointed Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, and Varun Krishna, CEO of Rocket Companies, to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.
The airline said the appointments will strengthen the Board with additional expertise in public company leadership, technology, digital innovation, commercial strategy and financial management as Southwest continues to execute its strategic priorities and pursue long-term shareholder value.
“Jason and Varun are exceptional leaders who bring complementary experience leading complex, customer-focused companies through periods of growth, innovation, and transformation,” said Doug Brooks, independent Chair of the Board. “Their perspectives will be valuable as Southwest continues to advance its strategic plan and deliver long-term value for our Shareholders.”
Liberty has served as Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group since 2025, having previously been CEO from 2022 and Chief Financial Officer for nine years. During his more than two decades with the company, he has held senior leadership positions across finance, strategy, technology, legal, shared services and business operations. He has also served as Chair of the Cruise Lines International Association.
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Krishna leads Rocket Companies, the financial technology platform that includes Rocket Mortgage, Redfin and other consumer finance businesses. He is responsible for the company’s business strategy and the integration of its brands and products. Before joining Rocket, Krishna held senior executive roles at Intuit and previously worked in leadership positions at PayPal, Groupon and Microsoft.
“Southwest is one of the most respected and recognizable brands in travel, with a strong culture, a proud history, and exciting opportunities ahead,” Liberty said. “I look forward to working with the Board and Leadership Team as the Company continues evolving its customer experience and positioning itself for sustained, long-term success.”
Krishna said he was honoured to join the Board and contribute to Southwest’s continued efforts to innovate and enhance its customer experience.
Southwest President, CEO and Vice Chairman Bob Jordan said the two appointments bring complementary strengths to the Board.
“Jason brings significant travel industry, operational, and financial leadership experience, while Varun brings deep expertise in digital products, innovation, and customer engagement,” Jordan said. “Together, their perspectives will strengthen our Board as we continue enhancing the Customer experience, improving performance, and executing our strategic priorities.”
The appointments come as Southwest continues to advance its strategic plan, with a focus on improving operational and financial performance while evolving its customer offering.
