With more than 60 years of combined service to Delta Air Lines, Allison Ausband and John Laughter stepped into leadership roles that will help shape the future of the airline as it rebuilds and recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. Their new responsibilities come as Delta celebrates Bill Lentsch’s career, following the announcement of his retirement.

Ausband, who previously served as senior vice president of in-flight service, will become Delta’s new executive vice president and chief customer experience officer. After joining Delta in 1985 as a flight attendant, she went on to serve as vice president of reservation sales and customer care before leading the in-flight service team.

“Allison is well-suited for the role with deep experience at Delta and a strong background in customer service,” Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said in a memo to employees.

Ausband will join Laughter on the Delta Leadership Committee (DLC), a group of the airline’s top executives who work closely with Bastian on the company’s strategic vision and direction. They will both bring their extensive Delta experience and exceptional track records of advocating for employees to the committee.

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