Herb Kelleher was an American businessman best known as the co-founder, former CEO, and former chairman of Southwest Airlines. He was instrumental in the development of the company's unique corporate culture and its low-cost, no-frills business model.
Kelleher was born in Camden, New Jersey, in 1931. He graduated from Wesleyan University in 1953 and served in the U.S. Marine Corps before attending the University of Texas School of Law. After graduating from law school, Kelleher worked as a lawyer in San Antonio, Texas.
In 1967, Kelleher co-founded Southwest Airlines with Rollin King. The airline initially operated three planes between Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Under Kelleher's leadership, Southwest Airlines grew into one of the largest and most successful airlines in the world.
Kelleher was known for his unconventional management style and his commitment to customer service. He was also a strong advocate for the deregulation of the airline industry.
Kelleher retired from Southwest Airlines in 2001. He died in 2019 at the age of 87.
Herb Kelleher
Herb Kelleher was an American businessman best known as the co-founder, former CEO, and former chairman of Southwest Airlines. He was instrumental in the development of the company's unique corporate culture and its low-cost, no-frills business model.
- Co-founder of Southwest Airlines
- CEO of Southwest Airlines
- Chairman of Southwest Airlines
- Pioneer of the low-cost airline model
- Innovator in customer service
- Advocate for airline deregulation
- Philanthropist
- Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
- Named one of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century" by Time magazine
- Died in 2019 at the age of 87
Herb Kelleher was a true visionary who revolutionized the airline industry. His legacy will continue to inspire business leaders for generations to come.
Co-founder of Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher was the co-founder of Southwest Airlines, which he founded in 1967 with Rollin King. The airline initially operated three planes between Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Under Kelleher's leadership, Southwest Airlines grew into one of the largest and most successful airlines in the world.
- Pioneer of the low-cost airline model
Southwest Airlines was one of the first airlines to offer low-cost fares. Kelleher believed that everyone should be able to afford to fly, and he made it his mission to make air travel more affordable for the average person. - Innovator in customer service
Southwest Airlines is known for its excellent customer service. Kelleher believed that customers should be treated with respect and kindness, and he made sure that this was a top priority for the airline. - Advocate for airline deregulation
Kelleher was a strong advocate for the deregulation of the airline industry. He believed that deregulation would lead to lower fares and more competition, which would benefit consumers. - Philanthropist
Kelleher was a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He also established the Kelleher Family Foundation, which continues to support these causes today.
Herb Kelleher was a true visionary who revolutionized the airline industry. His legacy will continue to inspire business leaders for generations to come.
CEO of Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher was the CEO of Southwest Airlines from 1981 to 2001. During his tenure, the airline grew from a small regional carrier to one of the largest and most successful airlines in the world. Kelleher was known for his unconventional management style and his commitment to customer service.
- Pioneer of the low-cost airline model
As CEO, Kelleher was instrumental in developing Southwest Airlines' low-cost, no-frills business model. He believed that everyone should be able to afford to fly, and he made it his mission to make air travel more affordable for the average person. - Innovator in customer service
Kelleher was also known for his focus on customer service. He believed that customers should be treated with respect and kindness, and he made sure that this was a top priority for Southwest Airlines. - Advocate for airline deregulation
Kelleher was a strong advocate for the deregulation of the airline industry. He believed that deregulation would lead to lower fares and more competition, which would benefit consumers. - Philanthropist
Kelleher was a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He also established the Kelleher Family Foundation, which continues to support these causes today.
Kelleher's leadership had a profound impact on Southwest Airlines and the airline industry as a whole. He was a true visionary who revolutionized the way people travel.
Chairman of Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher was the Chairman of Southwest Airlines from 1971 to 2008. During his tenure, the airline grew from a small regional carrier to one of the largest and most successful airlines in the world. Kelleher was known for his unconventional management style and his commitment to customer service.
As Chairman, Kelleher was responsible for overseeing the airline's overall strategy and direction. He was also responsible for representing the airline to shareholders, customers, and employees. Kelleher's leadership was instrumental in Southwest Airlines' success. He was a visionary leader who was always looking for ways to improve the airline. He was also a strong advocate for his employees and customers.
Kelleher's legacy as Chairman of Southwest Airlines is one of innovation and customer service. He was a true pioneer in the airline industry, and his leadership helped to make Southwest Airlines the success that it is today.
Pioneer of the low-cost airline model
Herb Kelleher was a pioneer of the low-cost airline model. He believed that everyone should be able to afford to fly, and he made it his mission to make air travel more affordable for the average person. Under his leadership, Southwest Airlines became one of the most successful airlines in the world.
The low-cost airline model is based on the idea of offering low fares and no-frills service. This model has been very successful for Southwest Airlines, and it has helped to make air travel more affordable for millions of people.
Kelleher's pioneering work in the low-cost airline model has had a profound impact on the airline industry. His legacy will continue to inspire business leaders for generations to come.
Innovator in customer service
Herb Kelleher was known for his commitment to customer service. He believed that customers should be treated with respect and kindness, and he made sure that this was a top priority for Southwest Airlines.
- Empowering employees
Kelleher gave his employees the authority to make decisions on the spot, which allowed them to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently. - Creating a positive work environment
Kelleher created a positive work environment for his employees, which in turn led to better customer service. - Listening to customers
Kelleher was always listening to customer feedback, and he used this feedback to improve the airline's products and services. - Going the extra mile
Kelleher was always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that customers were satisfied.
Kelleher's commitment to customer service was one of the key factors in Southwest Airlines' success. He created a culture of customer service that is still alive and well today.
Advocate for airline deregulation
Herb Kelleher was a strong advocate for the deregulation of the airline industry. He believed that deregulation would lead to lower fares and more competition, which would benefit consumers.
Kelleher was a key figure in the movement to deregulate the airline industry. He testified before Congress on behalf of deregulation, and he lobbied the Carter Administration to support deregulation. In 1978, President Carter signed the Airline Deregulation Act into law.
Airline deregulation had a profound impact on the industry. It led to lower fares, more competition, and more choices for consumers. Southwest Airlines was one of the biggest beneficiaries of deregulation. The airline was able to offer low fares and no-frills service, which appealed to price-conscious consumers.
Kelleher's advocacy for airline deregulation was a major factor in the success of Southwest Airlines. He was a visionary leader who saw the potential for deregulation to transform the airline industry. His work helped to create a more competitive and affordable airline industry for consumers.
Philanthropist
Herb Kelleher was a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He also established the Kelleher Family Foundation, which continues to support these causes today.
- Support for education
Kelleher was a strong believer in the power of education. He supported a number of educational institutions, including his alma mater, Wesleyan University. He also established the Kelleher Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Texas at Austin. - Support for healthcare
Kelleher was also a strong supporter of healthcare. He donated to a number of hospitals and medical research organizations. He also established the Kelleher Family Foundation to support healthcare initiatives in Texas. - Support for the arts
Kelleher was a lover of the arts. He supported a number of arts organizations, including the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the San Antonio Museum of Art. He also established the Kelleher Art Foundation to support emerging artists. - The Kelleher Family Foundation
The Kelleher Family Foundation is a private foundation that was established by Herb Kelleher and his wife, Joan. The foundation supports a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. The foundation has also made significant contributions to the city of Dallas.
Herb Kelleher's philanthropy had a profound impact on the community. He was a generous supporter of a variety of causes, and his legacy will continue to benefit others for years to come.
Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian award in the United States. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.
Herb Kelleher was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 by President Barack Obama. Kelleher was recognized for his pioneering work in the airline industry, his commitment to customer service, and his philanthropy.
Kelleher's award of the Presidential Medal of Freedom is a testament to his significant contributions to the United States. He was a visionary leader who transformed the airline industry and made air travel more affordable and accessible for millions of people. He was also a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is a prestigious award that is given to a select group of individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the United States. Herb Kelleher was a deserving recipient of this award, and his legacy will continue to inspire others for generations to come.
Named one of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century" by Time magazine
Herb Kelleher was named one of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century" by Time magazine in 1999. This recognition is a testament to his significant contributions to the airline industry and to society as a whole.
Kelleher's influence on the airline industry is undeniable. He was the co-founder and former CEO of Southwest Airlines, which he helped to transform into one of the most successful airlines in the world. Kelleher's pioneering work in the low-cost airline model helped to make air travel more affordable for millions of people. He was also a strong advocate for airline deregulation, which led to lower fares and more competition in the industry.
Kelleher's influence extended beyond the airline industry. He was a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He was also a strong advocate for environmental protection and social justice.
Kelleher's inclusion on Time magazine's list of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century" is a recognition of his significant contributions to society. He was a visionary leader who transformed the airline industry and made a positive impact on the world.
Died in 2019 at the age of 87
Herb Kelleher, the co-founder and former CEO of Southwest Airlines, died in 2019 at the age of 87. His death was a significant loss to the airline industry and to the world of business.
- Legacy and Impact
Kelleher's legacy is one of innovation, customer service, and entrepreneurship. He helped to revolutionize the airline industry by creating a low-cost, no-frills airline that made air travel more affordable for millions of people. He was also a strong advocate for employee empowerment and customer satisfaction.
- Philanthropy and Social Responsibility
Kelleher was a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He also established the Kelleher Family Foundation, which continues to support these causes today.
- Leadership and Management Style
Kelleher was known for his unconventional leadership style. He was a hands-on manager who was always willing to listen to his employees. He also had a great sense of humor and was known for his practical jokes.
- Recognition and Awards
Kelleher received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the airline industry and to society. In 1999, he was named one of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century" by Time magazine. In 2013, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Herb Kelleher was a visionary leader who made a significant impact on the world. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
FAQs about Herb Kelleher
Herb Kelleher was the co-founder and former CEO of Southwest Airlines. He was a visionary leader who revolutionized the airline industry and made air travel more affordable for millions of people. Here are some frequently asked questions about Herb Kelleher:
Question 1: What was Herb Kelleher's management style like?Herb Kelleher was known for his unconventional management style. He was a hands-on manager who was always willing to listen to his employees. He also had a great sense of humor and was known for his practical jokes.
Question 2: What were Herb Kelleher's contributions to the airline industry?Herb Kelleher's contributions to the airline industry are numerous. He was a pioneer of the low-cost airline model, which helped to make air travel more affordable for millions of people. He was also a strong advocate for airline deregulation, which led to lower fares and more competition in the industry.
Question 3: What was Herb Kelleher's philanthropic work?Herb Kelleher was a generous philanthropist who supported a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He also established the Kelleher Family Foundation, which continues to support these causes today.
Question 4: What awards and recognition did Herb Kelleher receive?Herb Kelleher received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the airline industry and to society. In 1999, he was named one of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century" by Time magazine. In 2013, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Question 5: What is Herb Kelleher's legacy?Herb Kelleher's legacy is one of innovation, customer service, and entrepreneurship. He helped to revolutionize the airline industry and made a positive impact on the world. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Summary: Herb Kelleher was a visionary leader who made significant contributions to the airline industry and to society as a whole. His legacy of innovation, customer service, and philanthropy will continue to inspire others for generations to come.
Transition to the next article section: Herb Kelleher's contributions to the airline industry are undeniable. He was a pioneer of the low-cost airline model and a strong advocate for airline deregulation. His work helped to make air travel more affordable and accessible for millions of people.
Tips by Herb Kelleher
Herb Kelleher, the co-founder and former CEO of Southwest Airlines, was known for his unconventional management style and his commitment to customer service. Here are some tips from Herb Kelleher that can help you to improve your business:
Tip 1: Empower your employees.
Kelleher believed that employees should be given the authority to make decisions on their own. This empowered employees to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.
Tip 2: Create a positive work environment.
Kelleher created a positive work environment for his employees, which in turn led to better customer service. He encouraged employees to have fun and to be themselves.
Tip 3: Listen to your customers.
Kelleher was always listening to customer feedback, and he used this feedback to improve the airline's products and services. He believed that it was important to understand what customers wanted and needed.
Tip 4: Go the extra mile.
Kelleher was always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that customers were satisfied. He believed that it was important to exceed customer expectations.
Tip 5: Be innovative.
Kelleher was always looking for new ways to improve the airline's products and services. He encouraged employees to be creative and to think outside the box.
Tip 6: Be passionate about your work.
Kelleher was passionate about the airline industry, and this passion was contagious. He inspired his employees to be passionate about their work and to provide excellent customer service.
Tip 7: Have fun.
Kelleher believed that it was important to have fun at work. He encouraged employees to enjoy themselves and to make the workplace a fun place to be.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can improve your business and provide better customer service. Herb Kelleher was a visionary leader who revolutionized the airline industry. His tips can help you to achieve success in your own business.
Transition to the article's conclusion:
Herb Kelleher was a true pioneer in the business world. His tips can help you to improve your business and to achieve success.
Conclusion
Herb Kelleher was a visionary leader who revolutionized the airline industry. He was a pioneer of the low-cost airline model, a strong advocate for airline deregulation, and a generous philanthropist. His legacy will continue to inspire business leaders for generations to come.
Kelleher's story is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to customer service. He showed the world that it is possible to build a successful business while also making a positive impact on the world.
Kelleher's legacy will continue to inspire entrepreneurs and business leaders for generations to come. His story is a reminder that it is possible to achieve great things when you are passionate about your work and committed to making a difference.
