From what I recall from reading on FT..and it's been awhile on this subject.. positive space UA employees (NRPS) traveling on company business are allowed confirmed business class seats on 3 class planes..and yes they take priority over upgraders but can be ousted by full fare biz passengers. Perhaps this person was switching from another flight to yours. That's my theory. However I don't know why they would show up on the list below you...that part doesn't make sense.