JetBlue Airways (NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced a significant leadership transition, with Joanna Geraghty set to take over as Chief Executive Officer on February 12, 2024. Geraghty, currently the President and Chief Operating Officer, will succeed Robin Hayes, who has led the airline for the past nine years.
Hayes, in a personal statement, shared, “It’s bittersweet to retire from this airline I love, but I will always feel a part of the JetBlue team and be rooting for its continued success.” He noted the toll that the demands of the job have taken on his health and, upon consultation with his doctor and discussions with his wife, decided to focus on his well-being. Hayes expressed pride in his tenure, stating, “It has been a privilege to lead JetBlue for the past nine years, and I am proud of all we have accomplished.”
Peter Boneparth, the chair of JetBlue’s Board, commented on the transition, emphasizing the company’s confidence in Geraghty’s capabilities. “Joanna is a proven strategic leader and she is clearly the right person to carry JetBlue forward into this next chapter,” he said. The Board believes Geraghty’s extensive experience within the company, particularly during challenging times, makes her an ideal choice for the CEO role.
Geraghty, upon her appointment, stated, “I am honored and excited to serve as the next CEO of JetBlue.” She highlighted her commitment to maintaining JetBlue’s unique culture and brand, and her enthusiasm for leading the company into a new phase of growth and profitability.
Geraghty’s nearly 20-year career at JetBlue has seen her in various roles, culminating in her position as president and COO since 2018. She also has affiliations with L3Harris Technologies and Concern Worldwide and holds degrees from the College of the Holy Cross and Syracuse University.
The announcement also included an update on JetBlue’s financial performance, with expectations for the fourth quarter of 2023 to align with the higher end of their previously issued guidance, based on preliminary results. Further details are expected to be provided in the airline’s earnings call on January 30, 2024.
