$11 billion Southwest Airlines has appointed Doug Brooks, chairman, president, and CEO of Brinker International, to its board of directors, effective Feb. 15.

Brinker's portfolio includes Chili's Grill & Bar; On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina; and Maggiano's Little Italy. Brinker currently owns or franchises more than 1,700 restaurants in 50 states, 29 countries, and two territories, and has more than 125,000 employees.

Brooks joined Chili's more than 30 years ago as a manager, and rose through the ranks at Chili's, holding numerous positions including general manager, area director, and regional vice president. Brooks was named president of the company in 1994. In January 1999, he was promoted to president and COO of Brinker International. CEO and chairman were added to his title and responsibilities in 2004.

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