New Era for Textron Aviation as Brian Rohloff Steps in as CEO
General aviation’s stalwart, Textron Aviation, is on the cusp of a new era. The powerhouse behind the Cessna, Beechcraft, and Bell brands is set to welcome Brian Rohloff as its new President and Chief Executive Officer on August 31, 2026. Rohloff will be stepping into the shoes of the outgoing CEO, Ron Draper, who has been at the helm for eight years and has dedicated over 27 years to Textron.
With a rich 29-year tenure at Textron Aviation, Rohloff is no stranger to the company’s dynamics. A Wichita State University alumnus, he has held key positions such as Senior Vice President of Customer Support, Vice President of Quality, Vice President of Sales, and Senior Product Director for the Citation XLS+ and Citation X programs. His comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations, products, and customer relationships played a significant role in his appointment.
The leadership transition comes at a critical juncture as Textron’s parent company embarks on a significant strategic restructuring. The aim is to evolve into a “pure-play aerospace and defense company” by divesting its industrial segment. One of Rohloff’s immediate tasks will be to guide the Beechcraft Denali turboprop — a fresh design powered by GE Aerospace’s Catalyst engine — to certification. The aircraft is slated to enter service in 2027 following over 4,100 hours of rigorous testing. To ensure a seamless leadership handover, Draper will stay on as a senior advisor until the end of 2026.
Source: AVweb – Textron Aviation Names Brian Rohloff CEO