Walter W. Edward was one of the most successful and innovative CEOs of the 1950s. Before becoming an executive and eventually the president of a major company, Edward attended the University of Chicago, where he earned his undergraduate degree in business administration. He was then accepted into the Harvard Business School and received his MBA in 1950.
Edward's first job after graduating from Harvard was as a corporate executive for Southern California Edison. He worked in the corporate and business divisions where he developed strong leadership skills, learned about implementing and strategizing for various projects, and gained invaluable experience in the business world.
After six years at Southern California Edison, Edward left to become the president of QBC Companies, a conglomerate of 11 companies founded by a group of entrepreneurs who wanted to capitalize on the international market’s potential. At QBC, Edward implemented a new organizational structure and made innovation the cornerstone of the company’s success. He focused on diversifying QBC’s operations, expanding into new territories and investing in technology to create efficiencies and stay ahead of the competition. His strategies increased the company’s profits and he earned a reputation as an innovative executive.
His success at QBC caught the attention of American Continental Corporation, the then-parent company of Continental Airlines, who were looking for a CEO for their airline. In 1956, Edward was hired as the new CEO. Throughout his tenure at Continental, Edward brought about a number of drastic changes including cost cutting initiatives, the adoption of new technologies, and introducing an innovative consumer service program which revolutionized the industry.
Edward was a true visionary, who was able to look to the future and devise strategies that enabled Continental Airlines to become the premier airline in the United States. He grasped the potential of the growing international travel market and increased Continental’s presence in Europe and Asia. He also introduced customer service changes like advance ticketing and free seat selection, showing a focus on customer relationships. It was under his guidance that the Continental Airlines became a customer-oriented business and one of the most respected airlines in the world.
Throughout his career, Edward proved himself to be a trailblazer and innovator. He set an example for other executives to follow and his achievements were widely discussed in Harvard business school case studies and articles. Edward also received numerous awards and accolades for his business acumen and leadership, including being inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame.
Walter W. Edward’s career is a perfect example of how hard work, dedication and vision can be rewarded. His story demonstrates that anyone can rise from an executive to an innovative and successful CEO. From his humble beginnings to his unparalleled success at the helm of Continental Airlines, Edward served as an inspiration for many aspiring leaders.
