SkyWest, the holding company for SkyWest Airlines and ExpressJet Airlines, has named Robert J. Simmons Chief Financial Officer, effective March 16, 2015.
Simmons will oversee all financial controls, capital management, financing and accounting processes of the holding company, with a focus on improved profitability and value for all SkyWest, Inc. stakeholders. He will report to Russell "Chip" Childs, President of SkyWest, Inc.
Additionally, Wade Steel, currently Executive Vice President, will assume the position of Chief Commercial Officer. He succeeds Bradford R. Rich, who will retire from the company after more than 25 years. As Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Steel will oversee contract development and management and development of business opportunities with network airlines, as well as fleet management and purchasing. He will also report to Mr. Childs.
"These appointments represent an important step in redefining key leadership roles at the company as part of our return to profitability," said Childs.
"Rob Simmons brings a broad range of skills in capital management, financing, investor relations and overall strategy to the CFO role at SkyWest," continued Childs. "We expect his experience and skill-set to enhance SkyWest's financial and overall performance.