United Airlines Names Acting CEO

United Continental Holdings has confirmed that its president and CEO, Oscar Munoz, is on medical leave following a heart attack he suffered on 15 October 2015.

At this time, it is too soon to know the course of treatment and timing of recovery.

The UAL board of directors has named Brett J. Hart, currently United’s executive vice president and general counsel, as acting CEO. The appointment is effective immediately.

In addition to serving as United’s general counsel, Hart has been responsible for government and regulatory affairs, corporate real estate, customer experience, corporate security, community affairs, contact centers and food services.

Prior to joining United in 2010, Hart served as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary at Sara Lee, partner at Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal, and special assistant to the general counsel at the U.S. Department of Treasury.

Hart has a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy and English from the University of Michigan and a juris doctorate degree from the University of Chicago Law School.

Hart will work closely with Henry L. Meyer III, non-executive chairman of the board, and United’s experienced executive team to run the company in Munoz's absence.