Still only 40, Doug Parker is the youngest chief executive to run a US major. He started out in the airline industry after completing a degree at Albion College in 1984 followed by an MBA from Vanderbilt University.
1986-1991:
Joined American Airlines, serving in various financial management positions.
1991-1995:
Moved to Northwest Airlines. Titles included vice-president, assistant treasurer and vice-president for financial planning and analysis.
June 1995:
Joined America West Airlines as chief financial officer.
September 1997:
Added revenue management and schedule planning responsibilities.
April 1999:
Named executive vice-president of the corporate group.
March 2000:
Named president and chief executive of The Leisure Company, the holidays unit of America West Holdings.
May 2000:
Named president of the airline, with oversight of all aspects of operations.
December 2000:
Named chief operating officer of the airline.
September 2001:
Became chairman president and chief executive of America West.
Source: Airline Business
