Southwest Airlines has named Tom Nealon its new executive vice president of strategy and innovation, the carrier announced this week.
Nealon had been serving on the board of directors of Southwest, having been appointed in 2010.
Nealon had previously served as group executive vice president of JCPenney Company, Inc.
“As a board member, Tom was engaged and contributed at a high level,” said Southwest Airlines Chairman, President and CEO Gary Kelly. “Now, with his extensive knowledge in strategy, technology, and innovation, he will serve Southwest well in this leadership position.”
Southwest has been rapidly expanding its network to the Caribbean after first launching flights to the region last year.
The expansion has been focused around the carrier’s airport project at Houston’s Hobby International.