Phoenix-based Honeywell Aerospace names new CEO to replace retiring Madsen

Honeywell Aerospace President and CEO Mike Madsen is retiring, and the Phoenix-based company has named his successor from within its executive team.

Jim Currier, the president of electronic solutions at the company, will take the helm at Honeywell Aerospace starting Aug. 1. In the role, he will be a company officer reporting directly to Vimal Kapur, the CEO of Charlotte, North Carolina-based Honeywell International Inc. (Nasdaq: HON).

Currier has been with Honeywell Aerospace since 2006 and has been in his current position since 2021. During his time at Honeywell, he has also been president of the aftermarket business for Europe, Middle East, Africa and India. He has also served as vice president of business development for engines and power systems.

Before joining the company, Currier oversaw design, development and testing of upper-stage rocket engine programs at United Technologies, according to a company announcement.

“We are fortunate to have someone with Jim Currier’s level of experience and tenure ready to take the helm for the Aerospace business at Honeywell,” Kapur said in a statement. “Jim has an engaging leadership style, a people-first approach, and strong relationships with our customers and employees. When Jim officially starts in his role, he will focus on accelerating the growth of our business and driving even more value to Honeywell Aerospace customers through safer, healthier, more sustainable and innovative solutions.”

Madsen has been with Honeywell Aerospace for 37 years, starting out as an engine performance engineer. He also worked on solar dynamic power systems, cryogenic valves, launch vehicle actuation systems aircraft pneumatic components and more. He also served in multiple executive-level positions before becoming CEO in 2019.

Honeywell Aerospace is Arizona’s second-largest defense contractor

Under Madsen’s leadership, Honeywell Aerospace launched its Anthem next-generation flight deck and created its Urban Air Mobility/Unmanned Aerial Systems Greenhouse. In addition, he led the company into efforts — including partnerships with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Mesa Public Schools, the Girls Leadership Academy of Arizona — to promote education in science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, subjects.

Kapur said that Madsen set up Honeywell Aerospace for continued growth and success in the years to come.

“I’ve personally known Mike for a long time, and he has been an extremely effective leader and change agent in our industry,” Kapur said in a statement. “Mike has a rich history of achieving and exceeding results, as Aerospace has won an unprecedented $35 billion in new business these last two years. His leadership and commitment to customers, employees, and the community is unparalleled.”