New CEO of Bell Helicopter
Textron Inc. has appointed Michael Redenbaugh
(right) chief executive officer of Bell Helicopter, the world's
leading manufacturer of vertical-lift aircraft. He will report to
Textron Chief Operating Officer Steven Loranger. He succeeds John
Murphey (bottom), who has been named chairman emeritus of the Ft.
Worth (TX)-based producer of helicopters and revolutionary
tiltrotor aircraft.
Redenbaugh, 44, joins Textron from Honeywell, where he spent
more than 21 years in positions of increased leadership, most
recently serving as vice president and general manager of the $1.4
billion Propulsion Systems business and acting president of
Honeywell's $4.6 billion Engines, Systems and Services group. He
also served as vice president and general manager of Honeywell's
Military Helicopter and Industrial Engine business.
"This is a very exciting time for Bell Helicopter," said Textron
Chairman, President and CEO Lewis Campbell. "Under John Murphey's
capable leadership, this business has built a strong foundation for
future growth in both the commercial and military aircraft markets.
Mike Redenbaugh's experience and energy will help bring Bell to new
levels of performance and market leadership."
In his capacity of chairman emeritus, Murphey, 60, will focus on
strategic business development and growth objectives. Murphey has
been at Bell for 41 years and was named chairman and CEO in
September 2001. "John has been a vital contributor to Bell's
success over the years, and we are pleased that he will continue in
this important strategic role," Campbell continued.
During his two-decade tenure with
AlliedSignal/Honeywell, Redenbaugh held positions of increasing
responsibility in the commercial and military aircraft engine
arena. He led the AlliedSignal/General Electric gas turbine engines
joint venture and helped develop and drive an e-business strategy
for Honeywell Aerospace. In addition, he was selected to serve as
acting president of the Engines, Systems and Services group during
the GE-Honeywell Aerospace integration planning efforts.
"Mike Redenbaugh is a highly talented and motivated executive
with a proven track record of driving customer and employee
satisfaction while meeting or exceeding his financial commitments,"
said Loranger.
"Mike's expertise in Six Sigma and supply chain
management will be particularly valuable as Bell strives to reach
new levels of product development, productivity and supply chain
excellence," he continued.
Redenbaugh holds a BS degree in engineering from the University
of Washington and has earned certifications in areas such as Lean
Manufacturing, International Business, Six Sigma, and Executive
Leadership.