Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL and CAL.A) today named Gerald Laderman senior vice president - finance. In this position, Laderman, 42, will be responsible for fleet management, treasury, corporate finance and investor relations. He will report to Larry Kellner, Continental’s executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Previously, Laderman was Continental’s vice president of corporate finance in charge of aircraft finance, general corporate finance and investor relations.

“Gerry has been instrumental in securing attractive aircraft financing for our fleet modernization program,” said Gordon Bethune, chairman and chief executive officer of Continental Airlines. “His expertise and knowledge of aircraft financing have enabled us to purchase new aircraft at attractive interest rates.”

Under Laderman’s stewardship, Continental Airlines has financed more than $5 billion in aircraft purchases at interest rates under seven percent.

Laderman joined Continental in 1988 from the New York law firm of Hughes, Hubbard & Reed. He has held previous positions as vice president, staff vice president and senior director of corporate finance and aircraft programs.

Laderman is a graduate of Dartmouth College and the University of Michigan Law School.

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