American Airlines today announced that Danielle Kirgan has been named Senior Vice President – People. In this new role, Kirgan will lead all global human resource functions for the airline, including talent acquisition, training and talent development, compensation, benefits, and diversity. She will join American on Oct. 24 and will report to Elise Eberwein, American’s Executive Vice President – People and Communications.
“We couldn’t be more excited for Danielle to join the American team,” said Eberwein. “Danielle is a world-class executive who brings deep HR experience to our airline, and shares our vision for taking care of our frontline colleagues so they can take better care of our customers. This philosophy is not a box on a checklist or a project of the month – it is a lifelong endeavor, and one Danielle is eagerly looking to lead. Danielle and our tremendous People team will lead us on our journey to build a culture where trust and serving each other are hallmarks of working at American.”
Kirgan joins American from Darden Restaurants where she most recently served as Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer, a position she held since January 2015. She joined Darden in May 2010 as Senior Vice President, Total Rewards & HR Shared Services. Prior to Darden, Kirgan was the Head of Human Resources with ACI Worldwide as well as Vice President, Human Resources for the Consumer Foods Division at ConAgra Foods. She also held human resources leadership roles with W. W. Grainger and Teletech Holdings.