Textron appoints COO for Bell

Textron has confirmed that Lisa Atherton, formerly the President and CEO of its Textron Systems subsidiary, has been appointed new Chief Operating Officer for Bell.

It’s the latest position in a 15-year career with Textron. Atherton joined Textron Defense Systems in 2007, before being transferred to Bell in 2013. She held a number of positions within military programs, including Executive Vice President for Military Business. She was appointed to her previous role as President and CEO of Textron Systems in 2017.

Atherton is a graduate of the US Air Force Academy, and later spent eight years at Air Combat Command’s Directorate of Requirements.

Tom Hammoor to replace Atherton at Textron Systems

Hammoor steps into the role of President and CEO of Textron Systems. Hammoor most recently led Textron Aviation Defense, where he served as President and CEO from 2016. He brings over 38 years of leadership experience in the defense industry and military service.

Prior to joining Textron, Hammoor had a nearly 30-year career with General Electric, serving in a range of leadership roles in Quality, Manufacturing and Customer Service.

He also served in the 101st Airborne Division of the US Army, as a scout/attack Helicopter Platoon Leader. He graduated from the US Military Academy.

Scott C. Donnelly, Textron Chairman and CEO, said: “Lisa’s leadership and experience with military programs at Bell and Textron Systems will be invaluable as we ramp up and execute on the US Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft program.” He continued: “We are also fortunate to have a leader like Tom, who brings tremendous expertise, leadership and business acumen to his new role at Textron Systems.”

Textron also celebrated the delivery of its 3,000th Cessna Caravan fixed-wing aircraft earlier this month.