Deborah Kerr has been named chief product and technology officer for Sabre. Formerly with HP and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, she will lead the company’s global technology organization, overseeing innovation, development and delivery of software for airlines, hotels, travel agencies, corporations and travelers.
Deborah’s extensive technology experience, and proven record of bringing disruptive technology to the marketplace makes her a perfect choice for Sabre,” said Sam Gilliland, chairman and CEO, Sabre Holdings. “She will build on what we’ve already achieved with our revenue-generating and cost-saving technology, and embed emerging capabilities in areas such as mobile, big data and cloud capabilities, so our customers can stay ahead of the game in travel.”
Kerr joins Sabre from Fair Isaac (FICO), where she was executive vice president and chief product and technology officer. Prior to that she spent four years at HP, where she was chief technology officer at HP Enterprise Services and also served as vice president of business technology optimization products at HP Software. Kerr also spent time at Peregrine Systems, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. She is an expert on SaaS solutions, technology issues and trends.
Kerr replaces Barry Vandevier, who left in late 2012 to pursue a new opportunity outside the travel industry.
Today Sabre reports it is the world’s largest SaaS provider to the aviation industry, with its flagship reservations system used by fast growing global carriers including Aeroflot, AeroMexico, Etihad Airways, JetBlue, LAN and Virgin America.
In related news, Sabre reports it has appointed Rick Simonson as executive vice president (EVP) and chief financial officer (CFO). Having served in similar roles at several technology companies, including Nokia Corporation, he will lead the company’s global finance organization, responsible for all finance and controls, reporting, investor relations, and mergers and acquisitions.
Simonson replaces CFO, Mark Miller, who is leaving the company to explore opportunities with other portfolio companies of TPG or Silver Lake, the two private equity firms that own Sabre.
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