John C. Slater
Hideout,UT
Summary
Airline industry executive with over 40 years of experience in global operations, customer experience, and commercial strategy for major carriers. Demonstrated success in enhancing operational efficiency, leading business transformations, and fostering cultural change within multi-billion-dollar organizations. Recognized as a trusted advisor to boards and senior stakeholders, specializing in governance, strategic partnerships, and organizational leadership.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Vice President, Inflight Services & Catering Operations
United Airlines
Chicago, IL
01.2018 - 08.2025
- Led 28,000 flight attendants and 1,000 managers globally with $2.6B budget, driving safety, service excellence, and brand ambassadorship.
- Strengthened labor relations and regulatory partnerships to support operational goals.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction through service innovation and training programs.
- Streamlined crew operations, scheduling, and manpower planning through technology modernization.
- Directed global catering operations across 140 kitchens, ensuring food safety and vendor performance.
Vice President, Chicago Hub Operations
United Airlines
Chicago, IL
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Oversaw 550 daily flights, 5000 employees, and $600M budget at United’s largest hub.
- Transformed Chicago operation from an underperforming entity to United's best performing hub.
- Achieved operational excellence through cross-functional collaboration with FAA, TSA, CBP, and Chicago aviation department.
- Improved safety and reliability metrics through strategic planning and execution.
Vice President, Sales & Distribution Americas
United Airlines
01.2010 - 01.2015
- Led 1000-member sales team across U.S., Canada, and Latin America with $18B revenue portfolio.
- Delivered market share and premium revenue growth.
- Strengthened corporate client and travel distributor partnerships.
- Advanced joint venture and alliance sales strategies.
Staff Vice President, Sales – Latin America & Caribbean
Continental Airlines
01.2007 - 01.2010
- Developed and executed regional sales and distribution strategies generating $2.5B annual revenue while reducing distribution expense by 40%.
- Built strong partnerships with corporations, agencies, and alliance partners.
Managing Director, Distribution & E-Commerce
Continental Airlines
01.2002 - 01.2007
- Led direct sales and e-commerce growth to $3.5B annually, expanding online sales by $1.7B.
- Managed global distribution and web marketing partnerships.
- Oversaw commercial relationship with global distribution systems and online travel agencies. Grew top line revenue while reducing distribution expense.
- Additional leadership roles with Continental Airlines and People Express Airlines available upon request.
Education
High School Diploma -
Tallmadge High School
Tallmadge, OH05-1978
Skills
- Board governance and collaboration
- Global operations leadership
- Strategic planning and execution
- Business development and alliances
- Change management and culture transformation
- Customer experience innovation
- Regulatory and labor relations
- Employee engagement and leadership development
Awards
- Distinguished Sales & Marketing Award – Sales & Marketing Executives, Big Brother Honoree
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston
Affiliations
- O’Hare Airline Management Association, Executive Committee Co-Chair
- Global Business Travel Association, Foundation Board Member
- Airline Reporting Corporation, Board Member
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Board Member
- Urban League of Greater Cleveland, Board Member
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Education and Training
other
Timeline
Senior Vice President, Inflight Services & Catering Operations
United Airlines
01.2018 - 08.2025
Vice President, Chicago Hub Operations
United Airlines
01.2015 - 01.2018
Vice President, Sales & Distribution Americas
United Airlines
01.2010 - 01.2015
Staff Vice President, Sales – Latin America & Caribbean
Continental Airlines
01.2007 - 01.2010
Managing Director, Distribution & E-Commerce
Continental Airlines
01.2002 - 01.2007
High School Diploma -
Tallmadge High School
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