In a memo to staff at the beginning of the year, Delta CEO Ed Bastian wrote, “We will be building a new Delta centered on a medical and economic recovery that hasn’t yet taken shape. While our long history has taught us much, our success will depend on our collaboration, our willingness to be open to new ideas, our ability to adapt and our humility in recognising that we won’t always know the answers.”
This week, the airline appointed Dr Henry Ting as its first ever Chief Health Officer. Ting is a world-renowned cardiologist and currently serves as Mayo Clinic’s Chief Value Officer.
The appointment strengthens Delta’s relationship with Mayo Clinic, which deepened last June as part of the Delta CareStandard.
The clinic has advised the airline on employee testing, strategies for cleanliness and operational tactics to reduce the transmission of the virus.
Ting, who assumes his new role on 5 February, has co-led Delta’s Integrated Advisory Council since June last year. The council comprises professionals from both organisations, meeting frequently to review and assess Delta’s health and safety policies and procedures. Mayo Clinic will also provide Delta with ongoing clinical guidance to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through enhanced safety measures for employees.
Announcing Ting’s appointment to staff, Bastian said, “We know we can continue to improve and establish Delta as a model for how organisations promote physical and mental health.”
Where Delta leads will others follow?
