Wheels Up Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Wheels Up has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, finance, human resources, and legal affairs.

Focused on delivering premium private aviation solutions, Wheels Up maintains a commitment to safety and service while expanding global reach through a modern, diverse fleet of aircraft.

Leadership Roles at Wheels Up

  • Chief Executive Officer - George Mattson
  • Chief Financial Officer - John Verkamp
  • Chief Operating Officer - Dave Holtz
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - David Sneed
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Kristen Lauria
  • Chief People Officer - Brian Kedzior
  • Chief Legal Officer & Secretary - Matthew Knopf
  • George Mattson - Chief Executive Officer

    George Mattson, the Chief Executive Officer at Wheels Up, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision for the organization. Mattson manages the integration of on-demand private aviation services across the United States, ensuring the company maintains a competitive edge in the global market. By aligning operational goals with financial performance, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable growth and enhances the value proposition for members. George Mattson oversees the executive leadership team to ensure consistent delivery of safety and service standards. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and market shifts to solidify the position of the company as a leader in private aviation. Through strategic decision-making, the Chief Executive Officer fosters innovation within the fleet management sector, ultimately securing the reputation of the brand as a premier provider of high-end travel solutions for discerning clients worldwide.
    George Mattson

    John Verkamp - Chief Financial Officer

    John Verkamp, the Chief Financial Officer at Wheels Up, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies of the organization. Verkamp oversees financial planning, reporting, and treasury functions to ensure the company maintains a strong balance sheet while pursuing growth opportunities. By monitoring market volatility and operational costs, the Chief Financial Officer provides the insights necessary for informed decision-making at the executive level. John Verkamp leads the finance department in optimizing revenue streams and managing the complex capital requirements of a large, modern aviation fleet. This leadership role involves maintaining transparency with stakeholders and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. Through rigorous budget management and investment analysis, the Chief Financial Officer supports the long-term sustainability of the business model. Verkamp drives financial discipline across all departments, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support the mission of providing world-class private aviation services.
    John Verkamp

    Dave Holtz - Chief Operating Officer

    Dave Holtz, the Chief Operating Officer at Wheels Up, manages the daily flight operations and fleet logistics to ensure maximum efficiency. Holtz optimizes the scheduling and maintenance protocols for the diverse aircraft portfolio, guaranteeing that safety remains the primary focus during every mission. By streamlining ground support and pilot coordination, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the reliability of the on-demand service model. Dave Holtz collaborates with technical teams to implement advanced tracking systems that improve response times across North American markets. This operational leadership role requires constant monitoring of fleet availability and performance metrics to meet the high expectations of private aviation members. Through rigorous oversight of flight safety standards, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the integrity of the service network. Holtz drives continuous improvement in operational workflows, ensuring that the company delivers seamless travel experiences while scaling capacity to meet rising demand.
    Dave Holtz

    David Sneed - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    David Sneed, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Wheels Up, directs the strategic execution of service delivery and infrastructure development. Sneed focuses on the integration of regional operations to ensure a cohesive experience for members across the entire network. By overseeing the expansion of service capabilities, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer enhances the operational footprint of the company. David Sneed manages the coordination between ground services and flight crews to maintain high standards of safety and punctuality. This leadership role involves identifying opportunities for process improvement and technological adoption to increase service reliability. Through the management of complex logistics, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the company meets the evolving needs of the private aviation market. Sneed drives operational excellence by fostering a culture of accountability and precision, ultimately supporting the growth and stability of the organization.
    David Sneed

    Kristen Lauria - Chief Marketing Officer

    Kristen Lauria, the Chief Marketing Officer at Wheels Up, architects the brand identity and customer acquisition strategies that define the market presence of the company. Lauria directs all digital campaigns, member engagement initiatives, and public relations efforts to strengthen the reputation of the brand. By analyzing consumer behavior and travel trends, the Chief Marketing Officer crafts personalized messaging that resonates with high-net-worth individuals seeking private aviation solutions. Kristen Lauria leads the creative and analytical teams to ensure consistent brand positioning across all communication channels. This leadership role involves developing strategic partnerships that expand the reach of the company into new demographic segments. Through data-driven marketing tactics, the Chief Marketing Officer increases member retention and drives revenue growth. Lauria ensures that every touchpoint reflects the commitment to service excellence, effectively communicating the value of the modern fleet to a global audience of travelers.
    Kristen Lauria

    Brian Kedzior - Chief People Officer

    Brian Kedzior, the Chief People Officer at Wheels Up, manages the human capital strategy and organizational culture. Kedzior directs talent acquisition, employee development, and performance management programs to ensure the company attracts and retains top-tier professionals in the aviation industry. By fostering an inclusive and high-performance work environment, the Chief People Officer aligns the workforce with the core mission of safety and service. Brian Kedzior oversees the implementation of training initiatives that empower staff to deliver exceptional experiences to members. This leadership role involves developing compensation and benefits structures that remain competitive in the global market. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief People Officer ensures that the organization has the necessary expertise to support its modern fleet and operational demands. Kedzior drives engagement and professional growth, creating a foundation of talent that enables the company to maintain its status as a leader in private aviation.
    Brian Kedzior
    Matthew Knopf, the Chief Legal Officer & Secretary at Wheels Up, manages the legal affairs and corporate governance framework of the organization. Knopf directs all regulatory compliance efforts, contract negotiations, and risk management strategies to protect the interests of the company. By navigating the complex legal landscape of the aviation industry, the Chief Legal Officer & Secretary ensures that all operations adhere to international safety and transport standards. Matthew Knopf provides counsel to the Board and executive team on matters of corporate policy and strategic transactions. This leadership role involves overseeing the legal aspects of fleet acquisitions and partnership agreements that support the growth of the business. Through proactive risk mitigation, the Chief Legal Officer & Secretary maintains the integrity of the brand and its commitment to safety. Knopf drives legal excellence by ensuring that all corporate activities align with the highest standards of ethics and regulatory compliance.
    Matthew Knopf

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wheels Up Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Wheels Up?
    Wheels Up is led by George Mattson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Verkamp (Chief Financial Officer) and Dave Holtz (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Wheels Up’s executive team?
    The executive team of Wheels Up includes leaders such as George Mattson (Chief Executive Officer), John Verkamp (Chief Financial Officer), Dave Holtz (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Wheels Up have?
    Wheels Up has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Wheels Up’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Wheels Up includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.