No, the CEO Isn't Sir Richard Branson†

Virgin Atlantic's Ridgway Balances Profit, Innovation and Keeps the Planes on Time

Wall Street Journal, July 30, 2007 — Sir Richard Branson is the founder, chairman and brash public face of British carrier Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. But Chief Executive Steve Ridgway is the one who quietly keeps the airline running.

From Virgin's founding in 1984 with a promise to be a different kind of airline, it has grown into one of the world's most unusual carriers. It flies only long routes and offers more amenities than most rivals. Its "Upper Class" premium cabin — a blend of first- and business-class — grabs attention with innovations like inflight manicures and complimentary limo rides to and from airports.