Textron Aviation names Brian Rohloff as CEO, succeeding retiring Ron Draper

Textron Aviation, parent company of Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker, is changing leadership at the top. Textron confirmed on August 24, 2026, that Brian Rohloff will become CEO and President effective August 31, 2026.

He succeeds Ron Draper, who is stepping down after more than 27 years with Textron, including eight years running Textron Aviation. Rohloff has spent 29 years at the firm, according to the company, holding roles including Vice President of Quality, Vice President of Sales, and Senior Product Director for the Citation XLS+ and Citation X.

Lisa Atherton, President and CEO of Textron, described Rohloff as an experienced leader with close ties to employees, customers and suppliers built over his long tenure. She also credited Draper with strengthening the company's position in the industry, broadening its product range, and building a culture focused on quality and safety during his time in charge.

Textron Aviation's portfolio spans business jets, turboprops, and high-performance piston aircraft, along with special mission, military training and defense products under its various brands. The company did not detail any planned changes in strategy or operations tied to the leadership transition.