Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, has been elected Chairperson of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB), succeeding Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, who held the position since December 2020.
In his new role, Rousseau will lead the board of the world’s largest airline alliance, which comprises 25 global member airlines. As Chairperson, he will preside over the two annual board meetings and act as the board’s spokesperson, shaping the strategic direction of the Alliance.
“I am honored to take on the role of Chairperson for the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board,” said Rousseau. “Over the next two years, I look forward to collaborating with the board to advance our shared mission of providing a seamless customer experience. At Star Alliance, we are committed to the vision of an effortlessly connected world, and I invite all members of our Alliance to join me in turning this vision into reality by 2025 and beyond.”
Congratulating Rousseau on his appointment, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias commented: “I am delighted to welcome Michael Rousseau, one of the most seasoned CEOs on the board, as the new Chairperson. I look forward to partnering with him as we work toward realizing the renewed vision of the Alliance. I also extend my deepest gratitude to Scott Kirby for his exceptional leadership and invaluable contributions to Star Alliance during his successful four-year term.”
The CEB serves as the governing body of Star Alliance, setting its overarching strategic direction. Each of the 25 member airlines is represented on the board by its respective CEO, ensuring collaborative decision-making to enhance the global aviation network.