September 2, 2015 – The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), has appointed Joe Leader as CEO. In this role, Leader will serve as the global champion for APEX, working with senior executives at airlines, top industry suppliers, government organizations, major media groups, and related industry leaders with the aim of elevating the travel experience for all passengers.
“The APEX board of directors selected Joe as our association’s CEO because of the depth of his experience, education and leadership. He has a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of all aspects of passenger experience,” said APEX president Alfy Veretto of Virgin America. “We are confident Joe will take APEX to the next level of global recognition and influence that will bring transformative, positive change for the air travel industry.”
As CEO, Leader will be working with APEX’s worldwide team to further the association’s growth. In addition to fostering ancillary revenue opportunities for airlines, Leader will represent the association before industry groups and governments. He will also serve as an industry spokesperson on public policy matters and global strategic alliances.
In a four-month search process, Leader was selected from over 600 high-profile CEO applicants, who were screened and interviewed via the Marlborough aviation executive search group. The job requirements were tough, as the job ADVERT we ran shows).
Prior to joining APEX, Leader served in executive roles at aviation and technology companies for more than two decades. He previously worked as the president of an international aviation association, led the advancement of aviation booking technology expansion at a multi-billion dollar GDS company, and served in the international leadership of advanced technology companies. With a passion for education, Leader’s business Ph.D. dissertation research focused upon accelerating the passenger adoption of new aviation technology. Leader also holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Emory University alongside an MBA/TM focused upon technology management.
“I am honored to join the incredible team at APEX and to serve our members who represent the full breadth of the air travel industry,” said Leader. “The airline passenger experience is currently the central differentiating factor amongst carriers worldwide. This is why APEX will continue its long-standing commitment to working closely with members and partners to advance that experience in a manner that positively benefits our customers, our industry, and the countless individuals who work tirelessly to make air travel a pleasure.”
