Lisa Atherton has officially assumed the position of president and CEO of Textron, effective January 4, 2025. Her appointment marks a significant leadership transition for the company, succeeding Scott Donnelly, who has guided Textron since late 2009 and will now serve as executive chairman of the board.
A Proven Leader in Aerospace and Defense
Atherton brings nearly two decades of leadership experience to her new role. Before becoming CEO, she was the president and CEO of Bell, a prominent subsidiary of Textron specializing in aerospace and defense. Her previous experience also includes serving as president and CEO of Textron Systems, where she developed a strong understanding of the company’s diverse operations.
Textron highlighted Atherton’s extensive track record within the organization, noting her “vision and commitment to excellence.” According to a statement on LinkedIn, her leadership is expected to position Textron for “continued success across our diverse global operations.”
Transition Announcement and Future Goals
The announcement of Atherton’s appointment came in October 2025, when she expressed enthusiasm about her new responsibilities. She emphasized her commitment to collaborating with Textron’s teams to enhance their innovative technologies and products, aiming to deliver greater value to shareholders.
In reflecting on his tenure as CEO, Donnelly remarked, “It has been an honor to serve as Textron’s CEO. With the board’s support, I have had the opportunity to shape the business and develop a talented team for the future.” He also expressed eagerness to work alongside Atherton in her new role as she leads Textron into its next chapter.
As Atherton steps into this pivotal role, the industry will be watching closely to see how her leadership will influence Textron’s trajectory in the competitive aerospace and defense markets.
