Courage, Authenticity, and Leadership Built Through Global Experience

Alison Taylor’s extraordinary career, from Australia to the C‑suite of American Airlines(Retired), unfolds through bold choices, global moves, and a deep belief in people. She reflects on early roles across Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, where mentors encouraged her to say yes to opportunities that scared her. Those years shaped her resilience, expanded her worldview, and built the foundation that later led her to senior executive leadership at Starwood and ultimately to American Airlines as Chief Customer Officer.

Throughout her journey, Alison highlights the power of trust, the importance of surrounding yourself with strong teams, and the humility required to keep learning. She openly shares how family partnership enabled her global career and how being present, for teams, customers, and loved ones, defines meaningful leadership. Her reflections on crisis response, from the Thailand tsunami to 9/11 and the pandemic, reveal a leader who remains calm, optimistic, and deeply human in the face of adversity.

Alison’s story inspires listeners to embrace discomfort, honor authenticity, and lift others as they rise, because true leadership is built through service, courage, and connection.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• "I just kept saying yes."
• "Don't be scared to ask for help."
• "Get to know the whole person, not just what is with you at work."
• "Walk the talk, do what you say you’re going to do."
• "Be the person who lifts others."

Closing Reflection

Alison Taylor’s journey shows that courage and compassion can coexist, strengthened by authenticity, global perspective, and a commitment to elevating others. Her path reminds us that leadership is not about titles, but about trust, humility, and showing up with heart.

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