Date of Birth: March 12, 1931
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Date of Death: January 3, 2019
Biography
Herb Kelleher was an American businessman and the co-founder, Chairman Emeritus, and former CEO of Southwest Airlines, a major U.S. airline. Born on March 12, 1931, in Camden, New Jersey, Kelleher was known for his innovative approach to business and charismatic leadership style. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University and his law degree from New York University. Initially practicing law, Kelleher’s life took a significant turn when he partnered with Rollin King to establish Southwest Airlines in 1967. Under his leadership, Southwest Airlines became renowned for its low-cost, no-frills service and strong corporate culture. Kelleher’s unconventional management style and dedication to employee satisfaction contributed to the airline’s success and longevity. He passed away on January 3, 2019, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and customer-focused service in the airline industry.
5 Interesting Facts about Herb Kelleher
1. Herb Kelleher co-founded Southwest Airlines in 1967 with Rollin King.
2. He was known for his unique management style, which included an open-door policy and a focus on employee happiness.
3. Kelleher famously dressed as Elvis Presley for a company event, reflecting his playful personality.
4. Under his leadership, Southwest Airlines became the largest low-cost carrier in the United States.
5. Kelleher was inducted into the Advertising Hall of Fame in 2010 for his innovative marketing strategies.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Herb Kelleher
1. “Your people come first, and if you treat them right, they’ll treat the customers right.”
2. “We have a strategic plan. It’s called doing things.”
3. “Think small and act small, and we’ll get bigger. Think big and act big, and we’ll get smaller.”
4. “Power should be reserved for weightlifting and boats, and leadership really involves responsibility.”
5. “The business of business is people.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, Herb Kelleher’s net worth was estimated to be around $2.5 billion.
Children
Herb Kelleher had four children: Michael, David, Ruth, and Elizabeth.
Relevant Links
1. [Herb Kelleher – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Kelleher
2. [Southwest Airlines – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southwest_Airlines
