Telecom executive Mike Sievert joins Alaska Air Group board of directors

Alaska Air Group, Inc. announced today the appointment of Mike Sievert to the company’s board of directors. Sievert is the former CEO of T-Mobile, where he currently serves as vice chairman of the board of directors.

In his time as CEO, T-Mobile significantly increased its market value while strengthening its position in the U.S. wireless industry and improving customer loyalty and satisfaction.

“Mike is a proven leader who understands how to grow a business, strengthen customer relationships and execute at a global scale. His experience leading a highly competitive, customer-focused company, combined with his strong connection to Seattle, will make him a valuable addition to our board,” said Patty Bedient, Chair of Alaska Air Group Board of Directors.

Sievert led a period of significant value creation at T-Mobile, with the company’s market value increasing from about $60 billion to about $260 billion during his time. He oversaw sustained growth relative to competitors in the US wireless industry while strengthening customer loyalty and satisfaction. Sievert joined T-Mobile in 2012 as chief marketing officer, when the company’s market value was less than $10 billion.

Sievert brings strong ties to the Seattle business community. He has lived in the region since 2002, and serves on the Starbucks board of directors. Sievert is also a licensed pilot and longtime aviation enthusiast, flying his amphibious seaplane all around the Pacific Northwest.

“I’ve long admired Alaska’s focus on operational performance and doing the right thing for their guests. I’m looking forward to contributing to the airline’s continued growth and helping strengthen its position as a global airline,” said Sievert.

Before joining T-Mobile in 2012, Sievert held leadership roles at Microsoft, AT&T, E*TRADE, IBM and Procter & Gamble. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

With Sievert’s appointment, the board has 10 independent director seats. CEO Ben Minicucci serves on the board as a non-independent director. Sievert will serve on the Innovation and Safety committees. Alaska Air Group directors serve one-year terms upon election at the company’s annual meeting of stockholders.