2008 Tony Jannus Award Recipient

As part of the management team credited with engineering the remarkable turnaround of Continental Airlines, Chairman and CEO Larry Kellner has fostered the company’s unique culture, putting emphasis on strong internal communication and giving employees the tools necessary to provide outstanding customer service. His formula for success is a mix of solid financial insight, willingness to try new approaches and ability to persuade others to believe in the company and product.

The "Worst to First" turnaround of Continental, now the world's fifth-largest airline, was in its early stages with President Gordon Bethune when Kellner, then 36 years old, joined the extraordinary leadership team as senior vice president and chief financial officer. Since joining the company in 1995, Kellner has held a number of executive positions, including executive vice president, president, chief operating officer, before becoming chairman of the board and chief executive officer in December 2004.

Over the past 12 years, the carrier has won more awards for customer satisfaction than any other airline. In 2008, Fortune magazine placed Continental on top of its “Most Admired Global Airline” list for the fifth consecutive year and, in 2007, "America's Most Admired Airline" list for the second consecutive year.

In addition to strengthening internal communications and creating a focus on customer service, Kellner has promotioned international growth at the airline. Continental began its international service in 1998 and now Continental serves more international destinations than any other U.S. carrier.

Based in Houston, Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,900 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 144 domestic and 139 international destinations. With more than 45,000 employees, Continental carries approximately 69 million passengers per year.