Breaking Travel News

SkyWest CFO Bradford Rich promoted to president

“This strategic movement within our leadership team was endorsed by the Board of Directors to enhance the progress of all entities as SkyWest, Inc. continues to grow,” said Jerry C. Atkin, Chairman of the Board and CEO. “Brad’s immense experience, passion and dedication to all SkyWest stakeholders make him the ideal candidate for the additional responsibilities associated with his new role.” Atkin continued, “We have a rich talent pool at all entities, and part of our renewed focus will be to effectively tap into that talent to ensure SkyWest, Inc. continues to create the best value in the business for our employees, our customers, and all stakeholders.” “I am optimistic about the future and look forward to leading this talented team of industry professionals,” said Rich. “We are well-positioned to move forward productively and enhance each operation as we work together with a focus on our strategic objectives.”

As President, Rich will oversee the strategic development and operational and financial performance for all of the entities and investments associated with SkyWest, Inc. Russell “Chip” Childs, President and COO – SkyWest Airlines, and Bradford R. Holt, President and COO – Atlantic Southeast Airlines, will report directly to Rich.

Additionally, as part of the restructure, SkyWest, Inc. appoints Wade Steel as Vice President
– Controller of SkyWest Airlines and Kevin Wade as Vice President-Controller of Atlantic
Southeast Airlines.

In his new role as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Kraupp will oversee structured finance, fleet planning, information technology, investor and banking relations, benefits, risk management, and overall treasury functions. He will report to Rich. With his promotion to Chief Accounting Officer, Woodward will be responsible for the accounting, reporting, SEC compliance, financial analysis, corporate taxation and internal controls of the Company. He will also report to Rich.

Atkin joined the Company in 1974 as the Company’s Director of Finance. In 1975, he assumed the office of President and Chief Executive Officer. In June 1991 he was elected Chairman of the Board, and has led the Company from annual revenues of under $1 million to more than $3.5 billion.

ADVERTISEMENT

With nearly 24 years of experience at the financial controls of the Company, Rich has served as Chief Financial Officer of SkyWest since 1991. In this capacity, he has led the negotiations for some of the Company’s most significant strategic moves, including the acquisition of Atlantic Southeast Airlines in 2005 and the recent acquisition of ExpressJet.