William S. Ayer served as the CEO of Alaska Air Group from 2002 until his retirement in 2012. During his time, he was pivotal in steering the company through challenging economic conditions and maintaining its reputation for customer service and...

William S. Ayer served as the CEO of Alaska Air Group from 2002 until his retirement in 2012. During his time, he was pivotal in steering the company through challenging economic conditions and maintaining its reputation for customer service and operational excellence. Ayer had previously held various roles at Alaska Airlines, including president from 1997 to 2008, which helped him gain deep insights into the airline industry and the company's needs. Upon stepping down as CEO, he transitioned to the role of Executive Chairman, illustrating his continued commitment to the organization. Notably, Ayer chose not to increase his base salary over four consecutive years, reflecting a focus on aligning his compensation with the company's performance and a gesture of leadership during tough times. Ayer has also been involved with various boards, contributing to the community and prioritizing safety and employee engagement in his leadership. Outside of his corporate role, he actively participated in charities like the Alaska Airlines Foundation, underscoring his dedication to giving back. He left behind a legacy of transformation and growth at Alaska Air Group, ushering in a new era under the leadership of Brad Tilden, who succeeded him as CEO.