2009 PR People Awards: Spokesperson of the Year
Chris Mainz, Public Relations Specialist, Southwest Airlines Company
As spokesperson for the largest airline in terms of customers carried, Mainz’s experience and in-depth media relationships have guided his company through many challenges. Yet the unflappable Mainz is invariably on top of the facts and always has a creditable way of delivering his messages. He is key to maintaining Southwest Airlines’ reputation in an ever-changing environment.
Tamping Down Controversy
When Southwest Airlines decided to create a new system that would reduce flights on routes that were in low demand, while creating additional routes for busier destinations, Mainz defused the potential firestorm with assurance. And as a result, he got quoted in more than 400 articles in 2008.
That calm, collected manner came in handy again this past October, when a mother and her loud toddler son were booted from a Southwest flight because passengers could not hear preflight safety announcements. Mainz expertly offered a heartfelt apology, a refund and a $300 travel voucher.
He also has shown innovative thinking for projects, such as the opening of a new route for Southwest Airlines: Minneapolis/St. Paul. Remaining sensitive to Northwest Airlines, which was recently purchased by Delta, Mainz strove to position Southwest’s entrance into this new market as a positive advantage for that city’s travelers.
Who Needs Sleep!
In addition to his spokesperson duties, Mainz also helms Southwest Airlines’ Speaker’s Bureau, which takes in more than 150 requests a month. He also manages the internship communications program, weeding through a slew of resumes to identify ideal candidates. ■
Honorable Mention
Stacy DeBroff, CEO Mom Central Consulting
Leading a firm dedicated to helping clients like Kimberly-Clark, Disney Cruise Line and Ocean Spray reach the 75 million-strong mom market, Stacy DeBroff and her team tap a network of mom influencers, experts and opinion leaders to help spread the word traditionally and via social media. These efforts are supported by targeted research and panel groups.
December 7, 2009
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