The airline is keeping its CEO, but losing a large chunk of its board. In the fight with Elliott Management, who's winning?
Activist investor Elliott Investment Management told one of Southwest Airlines' top unions it still wants to replace CEO Robert Jordan, according to a union memo seen by Reuters, even after the carrier pledged to shake up its board.
Gary Kelly, LUV's executive chair, and six board members announce their decision to step down.
Southwest said six directors will leave the board in November and it plans to appoint four new, independent directors, potentially including candidates put forward by Elliott.
The tentative deal, inked with the union representing LUV's flight simulator technicians, will now be voted upon.
Southwest Airlines (LUV) shares fell in intraday trading Tuesday as the carrier facing pressure from activist investor Elliott Investment Management announced the exit of its former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and several board members.
Southwest Airlines' stock was headed higher Tuesday after Executive Chairman Gary Kelly announced plans to retire as part of a continued board “refreshment” at the airline, following urging from activist investor Elliott Investment Management L.P.
Southwest Chair Kelly to step down next year as activist Elliott pushes for changes at airline
An activist investor has continued pushing for a “comprehensive" review of Southwest Airlines' business while simultaneously building its stake in the carrier.
Elliott Investment Management is pushing for significant changes at Southwest Airlines Co., including a new board, to improve shareholder returns. Southwest Airlines' new strategy of assigned seating and premium options is considered incremental and insufficient compared to legacy airlines. Elliott's plan could take 2–3 years to implement, with uncertain returns, while other airlines offer easier paths to stock gains.
Following LUV's upbeat operational performance this summer, we assess the investment worthiness of the stock.
Shares of Southwest Airlines (LUV) gained Tuesday on confirmation that hedge fund Elliott Investment Management now holds a sufficient stake in the airline to call a special meeting as it seeks to shake up the company.