This discussion board post discusses the leadership qualities of Gary Kelly. He is the President, CEO and Board Chairman of Southwest Airlines, a notable American low cost air carrier. Prior to his promotion as CEO and Chairman in 2008, Kelly had served as Southwest’s controller, CFO, and Vice President (Finance). Under his leadership, the corporation has grown into becoming US’ largest and most admired airline (SWA, 2013).
Kelly displays three leadership qualities that that makes him an effective leader. One of these is his ability to ensure flexibility in management. For instance, Kelly is aware of unexpected changes in airline regulations, competitor strategies, and consumer behavioral patterns. During such occurrences, he has been able to change the course of business for long-term survivability.
Second, Kelly is both objective and goal oriented. He ensures that Southwest’s goals and objectives are operational, measurable, and specific. Last, Kelly’s character matches that of an effective leader through his belief in teamwork and great interpersonal skills. He not only lets his employees offer their contributions, but also encourages them to use communication for their strength of character (Kisling, 2007).
According to Stuart (2008), Kelly portrays three characteristics that makes him one of the most admired leaders in the airline industry. They include his commitment to success, objectivity, and team leadership capabilities. Indeed, the author notes that CEOs in the airline industry should use team leadership as a tool that empowers employees towards attaining desirable goals. Second, Kelly shows commitment to success by utilizing vital resources such as human capital and time in pursuing strategies that produce optimum results. Last, the objectivity character means that Kelly ensures his subordinates work in harmony with the airline’s key objectives (Stuart, 2008).
In my own opinion, Kelly will leave behind a legacy where employees embrace creativity and enjoy doing their jobs. Many of the corporation’s employees admit to having been attracted to Southwest because of its warm organizational culture. Indeed, Kelly has worked hard at marrying culture to long-term success.
References
Kisling, R. A. (2007). Character for Leadership: The Role of Personal Characteristics in Effective Leadership Behaviors. Ann Arbor, MI: ProQuest LLC.
Stuart, S. (2008, December 3). Aviation Analysis: Effective Airline Leadership Succession--Exclusive analysis by Spencer Stuart. Retrieved from CAPA: The Center for Aviation Website: http://centreforaviation.com/analysis/effective-airline-leadership-succession-4198
SWA. (2013). Channels: Office Biographies--Gary C Kelly. Retrieved from Southwest Airlines Web site: http://www.swamedia.com/channels/Officer-Biographies/pages/gary_kelly
