Former Delta CEO to Become the CEO of Amtrak

Charles W. “Wick” Moorman’s tenure as the “transitional CEO” of Amtrak nears an end with the hiring of Richard Anderson, 62, as the new president and CEO of the railroad company. Both men will continue to work together as co-CEOs until December 21st when Anderson will formerly take over the position. Moorman will move into an advisory role for the company. The two men will work closely together to ensure that Anderson makes a smooth transition into the railroad industry.

Anderson received his bachelor’s from the University of Houston at Clear Lake City and obtained his law degree from South Texas College of Law. After serving as a county prosecutor for Harris County, TX, the Galveston native served as the CEO of Northwest Airlines from 2001 to 2004 and as the president of United Healthcare from 2004 to 2007 before moving on to Delta where he assisted the company in recovering from bankruptcy and helped it to become one of the leading companies in the airline industry.

Anderson’s working relationship with House and Senate leaders on the transportation committee may bring some needed assistance to Amtrak’s current challenges with funding and possible budget cuts. Amtrak has recently come under fire from New York’s Governor Andrew Cuomo and New Jersey’s Governor Chris Christie, which could result in the surrendering of Penn Station.While this will be Anderson’s first executive role in the railroad industry, Amtrak officials are confident in Anderson’s abilities to maneuver through any industory related difficulties and lead the company to a positive future.

In light of the recent customer relations problems that have plagued airlines, Anderson’s hiring has raised some concerns among a few critics. However, Amtrak official assure critics that Anderson is dedicated to bringing quality customer service and leadership to the company.