Textron Aviation has appointed a new CEO to take over from Scott C. Donnelly, who has been at the helm of the company for the past 17 years.
Lisa Atherton, who currently leads Textron’s Bell division, will replace Donnelly starting January 4, 2026, the company confirmed in a statement on October 22, 2025. She will also join the company’s Board of Directors upon assuming the CEO role.
“The Board is pleased to name Lisa as our next CEO after conducting a comprehensive succession planning process and believes this transition will ensure continued success for the company,” said R. Kerry Clark, Textron’s Lead Director.
During her 18 years with the company, Atherton has worked in various roles and sectors. Most recently, she was the COO of Bell. In 2017, she became the President and CEO of Textron Systems after spending five years at Bell.
She is currently a member of the Board of Directors for Southwest Airlines, the Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation (AFAAC), Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership, and the Association of the US Army (AUSA).
“I am excited to become CEO of Textron, and I look forward to working with Scott, the Board and our global teams,” Atherton said.
Meanwhile, Donnelly will transition to the role of Textron’s Executive Chairman, overseeing the Board of Directors and offering guidance to Atherton on company matters.
Donnelly started at Textron in July 2008 as Executive Vice President and COO before taking on the role of president and COO in January 2009. He became CEO in December 2009 and was appointed Chairman of the Board on September 1, 2010.
“It has been an honor to serve as Textron’s CEO,” Donnelly said, reflecting on his upcoming new role. “With the Board’s support, I have had the opportunity to shape the business and develop a talented team for the future.”
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