Former Continental Airlines chief executive Larry Kellner has been named as non-executive chairman of Sabre Holdings.
Sabre appoints former Continental Airlines chief as new chairman
Former Continental Airlines chief executive Larry Kellner has been named as non-executive chairman of Sabre Holdings.
He succeeds Sam Gilliland, who was previous chairman and chief executive of Sabre. Gilliland will remain on the board of directors.
Company chief executive and president Tom Klein said: “Larry brings tremendous experience and expertise to Sabre, gained from his extensive career in the global travel industry.
“I look forward to working with Larry and the entire board of directors as we continue Sabre’s leadership in providing technology solutions to the travel industry.”
Kellner said: “Sabre is a world-leading company and a cornerstone for technology in the global travel industry. This is an exciting time in the industry, and Sabre has a unique role in shaping its future.”
He joins Sabre after 14 years with Continental Airlines before retiring in 2009.
Kellner serves on the boards of Boeing and Marriott International.
The appointment follows Expedia’s recent agreement to power Travelocity’s North American websites which prompted speculation that it could prompt either an outright buyout of Travelocity or an initial public offering by Travelocity parent, Sabre.
