Southwest Airlines CFO to Retire Amid Company Shake-Up

Dallas, January 12, 2025 – Southwest Airlines has announced the retirement of its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Tammy Romo, as part of a significant leadership shake-up. Romo, who has been with the airline for over three decades, will step down from her role on April 1, 2025.

In addition to Romo’s retirement, Linda Rutherford, the Chief Administration Officer (CAO), will also retire on the same date. These departures come as Southwest Airlines continues to navigate a period of transformation following recent challenges and strategic shifts.

Tammy Romo joined Southwest Airlines in 1991 and has held various leadership positions, including Head of Investor Relations, Controller, Treasurer, and Senior Vice President of Planning. She became the Executive Vice President and CFO in 2012, overseeing the airline’s financial activities, supply chain management, corporate strategy, fuel strategy, fleet management, and sustainability initiatives. Romo’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named one of WomenInc.'s Most Influential Corporate Directors in 2023.

Linda Rutherford, who joined Southwest in 1992 as a Public Relations Coordinator, has played a pivotal role in the airline’s communications and administrative functions. She served as the Chief Communications Officer for seven years before becoming the CAO. Rutherford’s responsibilities have included overseeing culture and communications, internal audit, people talent and leadership, total rewards, technology, and Southwest University. Her achievements have been recognized with several honors, including the 2023 PRWeek Women of Distinction award.

Southwest Airlines has begun the search for Romo’s successor, while the company has not yet announced plans to fill the CAO role. Bob Jordan, President and CEO of Southwest Airlines, praised both Romo and Rutherford for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence. He emphasized that their contributions have significantly shaped the airline’s success and will continue to influence its future.