WHY IT RATES: As part of his new role, Leskinen will lead United’s engagement within the financial community.—Donald Wood, Breaking News Senior Writer.MORE PeopleUnited Airlines has named Michael Leskinen the new managing director of investor relations. He replaces Julie Stewart, who was recently promoted to chief of staff to United Airlines by CEO Oscar Munoz.In this role, Leskinen will lead the company's engagement within the financial community reporting to Andrew Levy, Chief Financial Officer of United Airlines."I am excited to name Mike head of investor relations and look forward to working with him as he cultivates our critical relationship with shareholders and lenders," said Andrew Levy. "Mike's 16 years on the buy-side and strong relationships within the financial community make him an excellent addition to the team."Leskinen joins United Airlines from J.P. Morgan Asset Management, where he served as senior sector analyst – executive director and led the firm's research efforts in Aerospace, Defense and Airlines."Mike brings an outstanding mix of investing experience, sector knowledge and shareholder perspective, all of which place him in an excellent position to deepen United's relationships within the financial community as well as articulate our strategy going forward," said Scott Kirby, President of United Airlines.Leskinen received his bachelor's degree in finance from Arizona State University and his M.B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania."I look forward to having Mike's unique perspective brought inside the company to continually refine our efforts around Investor Relations and sharpen our communications with our shareholders," said Oscar Munoz, Chief Executive Officer of United Airlines.SOURCE: United Airlines press release.