On February 28, United Airlines announced that Rosalind Brewer would join its Board of Directors. Brewer is the former chief executive of retail pharmacy and healthcare company Walgreens. Fortune and Forbes have recognized her as one of the Most Powerful Women in Business.

Women in Aviation

Rosalind Brewer will be the fourth woman on United Airlines' board, alongside Carolyn Corvi, Michele J. Hooper, and Laysha Ward. United's CEO Scott Kirby said about Brewer's introduction to the board: 

"Roz's strategic acumen and visionary leadership make her the right addition to our already strong Board of Directors as we plan for the long-term success of United Airlines. Her vast leadership experience characterized by innovation and digital transformation have made a lasting impact on some of the world's leading companies and will be an asset to United." 

Ted Philip, the Chairman of United's Board of Directors, mentioned: 

"Roz has led some of the most dynamic and well-regarded companies in the world, and I am eager for her to help United excel in our plan to grow United to become the best airline in aviation history,"

Meanwhile, Brewer said about her new position: 

"I am honored to join the Board of Directors at United Airlines, an iconic company known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the aviation industry," and added, "I look forward to collaborating with the board and leadership team as we continue to deliver unparalleled travel experiences for our customers and chart the course for our bright future."

Brewer's Career

Roz Brewer's career includes crucial leadership roles at some of the world's most influential companies. Brewer was named CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) in March 2021, just when COVID-19 vaccines became available to Americans. She has constructed and led a team in standing up the technology for a vaccine scheduling system, created a safe operating model for store labor, and developed a plan to drive vaccine equity. WBA has delivered more than 70 million vaccine shots. 

WBA also states the following about Brewer's impact on the organization:

"In October 2021, Ms. Brewer and her team introduced a significant strategic pivot towards the growth of WBA into healthcare, including three strategic acquisitions to expand and accelerate WBA's consumer-centric healthcare offerings. During her tenure, the company also achieved considerable cost savings through its transformational cost management program." 

Brewer stepped down as CEO and a Member of WBA's board on August 31, 2023. She said after her departure:

"I am grateful to have had the opportunity to lead Walgreens Boots Alliance and to work alongside such talented and dedicated colleagues. I am proud of what we accomplished together. We've improved the lives of our employees, expanded healthcare services for our customers, and enhanced our ability to deliver on our purpose of 'more joyful lives through better health.' Over the past several years, we have recruited a world-class team to WBA, including the first-ever Chief Customer Officer and the first-ever President of U.S. Healthcare, and invested deeply in the improvement of the Company's overall culture."

"I am confident that WBA is on track to be a leading consumer-centric healthcare company, serving thousands of communities across the country, especially those that need access to healthcare the most. I look forward to watching the Company continue its transformation to deliver localized healthcare." 

Starbucks Corporation

Roz Brewer started her career as a scientist at Kimberly-Clark Corporation, enhancing her experience over 22 years. Brewer joined Walmart in 2006 and eventually became the CEO of Sam's Club. She has become the first woman and African American ever to lead a Walmart division through the position. Brewer was later on Starbucks' board of directors from February 2017 to February 2021.

As CEO of Walgreens after Starbucks, she became the only African American woman leading a Fortune 500 company. She was again the first African American woman to hold her position at Starbucks Corporation.

Educational Background 

Roz Brewer earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from Spelman College. She has supported her alma mater as chair emerita, highlighting her belief in the transformation of education and her dedication to enhancing the future of new generation leaders. She is still involved in many philanthropic endeavors, supporting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.

United Airlines

The decision to onboard Brewer as a member of United Airlines's Board of Directors is pivotal in the company's progress towards diversity, innovation, vision, and leadership. Brewer's strong experience and commitment will contribute to United's strategic direction, leading it to enhance operational success. Her leadership background and knowledge of various subjects could assist the company in structuring a better future for United Airlines and shaping the future of the aviation industry.