Delta's Executive VP Mike Campbell to Retire

Press release from the issuing company

Thursday, August 28th, 2014

Delta Air Lines today shared the following news from CEO Richard Anderson to its employees worldwide. 

Mike Campbell, Executive Vice President – Human Resources & Labor Relations, has informed Delta's Board of Directors of his decision to retire on October 1, 2014, after 40 remarkable years in the industry.  Mike is an extraordinary servant-leader who has played a central role in the transformation of Delta. He is a wise counselor and a good friend.  We will miss him, even though he will be available as a consultant on HR matters.  Mike instinctively understands that the Delta culture and people matter the most.  Under his leadership, Delta's unique culture of positive employee relations has thrived. 

Fortunately, his drive for doing what is best for Delta and its people will be carried on by Joanne Smith.  Effective October 1, Joanne will be the Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, reporting to me.  Joanne has served as Senior Vice President – In-Flight Service, capably leading over 20,000 flight attendants and administrative staff.  She also has led our company's onboard product development and catering operations. Joanne joined Delta in 2002 and since that time has managed the airline's brand, worldwide marketing communications, marketing sponsorships, community affairs, customer research and product and service development.  Joanne brings an inclusive, energetic leadership style and has a deep respect for Delta's culture, values and employees.

We are privileged that Delta's bench strength runs deep.  Allison Ausband, Vice President – Reservation Sales, will assume the position of Senior Vice President – In-Flight Service.  Allison returns to lead the division where she got her start as a flight attendant in 1985 and later served as Managing Director – In-Flight Service.  Allison is a strong leader of 5,000 employees in Reservations and Customer Care. She was instrumental in championing Delta's social media customer service channels, and she has successfully led Delta's global customer relations.  Allison will report to Chief Operating Officer Gil West.

Charisse Evans will become Vice President – Reservation Sales and Customer Care, reporting to Steve Sear, Senior Vice President – Global Sales.  During her 29 years at Delta, Charisse's responsibilities have included corporate facilitation, leadership development, employee engagement and recognition and airport, lounge and In-Flight operations.  In her most recent position of Vice President – ACS International Operations, she is responsible for 113 airport operations and 119 countries, with approximately 1,300 Delta employees and 6,000 third-party employees.  She is a fine Delta leader. 

Mary Loeffelholz is being promoted to the position of Vice President – ACS International Operations, reporting to Bill Lentsch, Senior Vice President – Airport Customer Service.  Mary has led our airport properties and facilities efforts as the Managing Director of Design and Construction in Corporate Real Estate.  She has supported Delta's growth in key markets – most recently with the significant role she played in Delta's expansion plans in LaGuardia and Seattle.  Her extensive background in working with our partners and suppliers worldwide and her in-depth airport operations and facilities experience will serve her well.

Please join me in thanking Mike for his many contributions to Delta and congratulating Joanne, Allison, Charisse and Mary on their new roles. 

Richard