The businesswoman currently serves as president of the beauty companies Clinique and Origins but in this new role, she will become the second female appointed by the board of the flagship airline carrier as part of their attempts to increase gender diversity.

United CEO Scott Kirby said: "Michelle’s extensive experience in business and product strategy will make her an excellent addition to our already strong Board of Directors In each of her previous roles, Michelle has deftly balanced modernizing and celebrating the historic brands she has overseen."

Earlier this year, United appointed Walgreens CEO Rosalind Brewer to the Board of Directors.

The new appointment is part of the International Air Transport Association's 25by25 initiative, which United as well as other airlines such as American, Delta, and JetBlue have signed data pledge to increase the number of women in underrepresented areas.

The IATA explained: "25by2025 is a global initiative led by IATA to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion (DE+I) in the aviation industry. Brought to life in 2019, 25by2025 emphasizes the significance of adopting best practices to foster greater DE+I and gender balance in the aviation sector.

"With more than 200 signatories, the change is already taking place in the aviation industry."