Delta Board Taps Former Northwest CEO Richard Anderson

Delta Air Lines today announced that former Northwest Airlines CEO Richard Anderson will take the CEO post when Gerald Grinstein retires on Sept. 1. The company also appointed chief financial officer Ed Bastian to president and CFO.

Anderson most recently served as executive vice president at UnitedHealth Group, which he joined in 2004 following a 14-year stint at Northwest that culminated in the CEO role. Anderson previously served as staff vice president and deputy general counsel for Continental Airlines.

Grinstein months ago voiced intentions to retire following the carrier's bankruptcy court protection exit, completed in late April, leading Delta's board to search for a replacement. CFO Bastian and COO Jim Whitehurst were among the most oft-cited internal candidates for the CEO post. Board member Anderson, however, ultimately gained the position "after a thorough search," said chairman of Delta's board of directors Daniel Carp today in a statement. "The board concluded that Richard Anderson possesses the right blend of seasoned leadership, strategic skills, international experience and airline knowledge the company needs to navigate the industry's challenges and capitalize on its opportunities."

Despite online news reports that claim Whitehurst would step down from his position upon the CEO appointment, a Delta spokesperson today said, "As far as I can confirm, Jim is still chief operating officer."

Grinstein today in a statement said Anderson has "extensive background in the Far East and Asia, which are among Delta's next growth opportunities. Richard's sound judgment and professionalism make him a great addition to Delta's battle-tested leadership team.''