United Cargo president Jan Krems is set to retire after 12 years with the airline, concluding a career that spans more than four decades in aviation and air cargo.

The Chicago‑headquartered carrier said Krems has decided to step down following “an outstanding career” marked by leadership roles across the global cargo industry.

“Jan has been a transformational leader for our cargo business and a highly respected voice across the global air cargo industry. Throughout his tenure, he strengthened United Cargo's commercial performance, expanded our global reach, advanced innovation, and deepened our commitment to customers around the world,” Andrew Nocella, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer, wrote in the announcement.

“I would like to underscore the incredible impact Jan and his team made during the Covid pandemic, with 17,000 cargo-only flights that helped United endure during an unprecedented time in history.

His vision, expertise, and dedication have helped position United Cargo as a leader in the industry, with revenue performance two times our nearest U.S. competitor,” he added.

“On behalf of United, I want to thank Jan for his many contributions and congratulate him on an exceptional career. We look forward to celebrating his accomplishments and wishing him the very best in retirement,” Nocella further said.

Chris Busch announced as VP Cargo

Meanwhile, the airline also announced that Chris Busch, currently managing director, Cargo Americas, has been appointed vice president, Cargo. 

Nocella said Busch is a highly regarded leader with deep knowledge of United’s business, strong industry relationships, and a proven track record of delivering results.

“Over the past 19 years at United, he has led commercial growth across the Americas region while helping strengthen operational performance and customer partnerships,” he added.

As Vice President, Cargo, Nocella said Busch will lead United Cargo's global organization, overseeing sales and marketing, revenue management, customer service, operational performance, product development, and technology initiatives worldwide. 

“Jan will see through this transition over the next couple of months.

I am confident Chris is the right leader to build on the strong foundation Jan helped create and guide United Cargo through its next chapter,” he added.

Krems, for his part, wrote: “I want to express my sincere thanks for all we have shared. I could not have done all this without your cooperation, support, and friendship. Thank you. Over the coming months, I will make sure to introduce you to Chris and make time for us to have proper goodbyes.”