Charlotte, NC, January 24, 2026

Honeywell Aerospace has outlined a strategic restructuring plan to spin off its Aerospace and Advanced Materials businesses, aiming to enhance innovation and market responsiveness. Key appointments have been made to lead these new independent entities, including the hiring of Josh Jepsen as Chief Financial Officer. This transition is expected to boost shareholder value and strengthen Honeywell’s presence in Charlotte, while emphasizing the importance of focused leadership and internal talent development for future growth.

Charlotte’s Honeywell Shapes Future with Aerospace Spinoff Leadership

Honeywell Aerospace announces key executive appointments as it prepares for independence, reflecting a strategic evolution for the global technology leader.

Charlotte, NC – The ongoing evolution of major corporations like Honeywell offers valuable insights into the dynamics of entrepreneurial innovation and strategic management that drive economic growth in our community and beyond. Honeywell International Inc., headquartered right here in Charlotte, North Carolina, continues to refine its global portfolio, making significant moves that underscore a commitment to focused excellence and robust leadership. These strategic decisions, while made on a large scale, echo the principles of clarity and resilience that are vital for small businesses and North Carolina entrepreneurs alike, fostering an environment conducive to sustained economic development.

The company’s deliberate restructuring into more agile, specialized entities reflects a proactive approach to market opportunities and an unwavering belief in the power of concentrated effort. This strategic realignment is a testament to the idea that by empowering distinct business units with tailored strategies and leadership, greater shareholder value and customer-centric innovation can be achieved. It’s a blueprint for growth that emphasizes core competencies and efficient resource allocation, principles highly beneficial for any Charlotte NC business aiming for long-term success.

Strategic Realignment for Future Growth

Honeywell is currently undergoing a significant restructuring, intending to spin off its Aerospace and Advanced Materials businesses. This strategic move aims to create three independent, publicly traded companies: Honeywell Aerospace, Solstice Advanced Materials, and Honeywell Automation, which will remain headquartered in Charlotte.

This plan is designed to unlock substantial shareholder value by enabling each new entity to pursue distinct strategic focuses and growth trajectories. The separation of Honeywell Aerospace is anticipated to be completed in the second half of 2026, marking a pivotal moment for the conglomerate. Honeywell Aerospace is set to establish its new headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, and will trade independently on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “HONA.”

The Vision for Honeywell Aerospace’s Independence

This strategic separation highlights a commitment to specialized growth, allowing the new Honeywell Aerospace to concentrate on its role as a premier technology and systems provider for a wide array of aircraft, including commercial, defense, and space applications. Such focused strategies can lead to enhanced innovation and quicker adaptation to market demands, benefiting customers and stakeholders.

Leadership Appointments Bolster New Aerospace Venture

As Honeywell Aerospace moves towards becoming an independent entity, key leadership appointments have been announced to guide its future. Josh Jepsen, formerly the Chief Financial Officer of Deere & Co., will join Honeywell Aerospace as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective February 23. His extensive background, spanning over two decades in financial and accounting leadership roles, is expected to provide critical guidance during this transitional and growth-oriented phase.

Financial Acumen Guides New Ventures

The selection of an experienced financial leader like Josh Jepsen underscores the importance of sound financial management and strategic planning in launching a new public company. His leadership will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of independent operations and optimizing financial performance for the new aerospace and defense firm. This emphasis on expert financial stewardship is a core tenet for successful entrepreneurial endeavors, regardless of their scale.

Cultivating Internal Talent and Expertise

In addition to external appointments, Honeywell Aerospace has promoted three long-standing leaders from within its ranks to head key business units. These appointments reflect the value placed on deep industry knowledge and proven leadership experience developed over years with the company.

• Bob Buddecke has been named President and CEO of Electronic Solutions. He brings over 27 years of experience at Honeywell, with a focus on operational excellence and strategic growth.
• Dave Marinick will serve as President and CEO of Engines & Power Systems, leveraging more than 37 years of expertise in business strategy and engineering leadership.
• Rich DeGraff is appointed President and CEO of Control Systems, having contributed over 17 years to the company in various leadership capacities.

These leaders will report to Jim Currier, who was previously announced as the President and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace. Their collective experience and understanding of the business are crucial assets for fostering continued innovation and market leadership in the highly competitive aerospace and defense industry.

Proven Expertise at the Helm

The promotion of these seasoned executives illustrates a belief in nurturing talent from within and recognizing individual achievement. Their long tenures demonstrate personal commitment and a deep understanding of the intricacies of their respective sectors, which are invaluable as the company transitions into its independent future. This approach fosters stability and leverages institutional knowledge, critical elements for sustained economic growth.

Charlotte Remains a Hub of Innovation

While Honeywell Aerospace prepares for its new home, Honeywell International Inc. maintains its strong presence and commitment to Charlotte. The company relocated its corporate headquarters to Charlotte, North Carolina, in October 2019, a move that has significantly contributed to the local economy.

The relocation was supported by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) from the state, which is projected to grow North Carolina’s economy by an estimated $7.9 billion over a 12-year period. The remaining Honeywell Automation business, based in Charlotte, is expected to generate an annual revenue in the $18 billion range, ensuring continued economic impact and job creation in the region.

Furthermore, Honeywell has demonstrated its commitment to the Charlotte community through strategic investments, including a $10 million contribution to UNC Charlotte to establish the “Honeywell Innovation Hub,” a facility dedicated to advancing STEM education, workforce development, and regional economic growth. Such private investment in education and innovation helps cultivate the next generation of North Carolina entrepreneurs and strengthens the Charlotte NC business landscape.

Lessons for All Businesses: Focus and Leadership Drive Success

The strategic maneuvers by a global player like Honeywell provide a clear demonstration of principles applicable to businesses of any size. The decision to create distinct, focused entities, each with a strong, dedicated leadership team, highlights the importance of clarity in strategy and agile management. By empowering specific divisions, companies can better respond to market signals, optimize operations, and foster an environment of entrepreneurial innovation.

This approach emphasizes the benefits of limited internal complexity, allowing each business unit to operate with greater autonomy and concentrate on its core mission. It’s a strategy that can inspire Charlotte small business owners to evaluate their own operations, seeking opportunities to sharpen their focus, leverage specialized talent, and ultimately drive greater effectiveness and economic growth.

Charting Charlotte’s Economic Future

The leadership appointments within Honeywell Aerospace and the broader corporate restructuring represent a significant development, not just for Honeywell but for the Charlotte region’s economic narrative. These changes illustrate a dynamic business environment where strategic foresight and strong leadership are paramount. As Charlotte continues to grow as a hub for innovation and economic activity, the presence of companies undertaking such transformative initiatives further solidifies its position.

We encourage our readers to stay informed about these developments and to recognize the positive ripple effects that major corporate strategies have on local job markets, educational institutions, and the overall Charlotte NC business community. Supporting local businesses and engaging with initiatives that promote entrepreneurial spirit and private investment remains key to ensuring sustained economic growth for our thriving city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Honeywell’s current headquarters location?

Honeywell International Inc. is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.

What are the three new independent companies resulting from Honeywell’s restructuring?

The three new independent companies resulting from Honeywell’s restructuring are Honeywell Aerospace, Solstice Advanced Materials, and Honeywell Automation.

When is the spin-off of Honeywell Aerospace expected to occur?

The spin-off of Honeywell Aerospace is expected to occur in the second half of 2026.

Where will Honeywell Aerospace be headquartered?

Honeywell Aerospace will be headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona.

Who is the new Chief Financial Officer of Honeywell Aerospace?

Josh Jepsen, formerly the CFO of Deere & Co., will become the Chief Financial Officer of Honeywell Aerospace, effective February 23.

Who are the new leaders for Honeywell Aerospace’s business units?

The new leaders for Honeywell Aerospace’s business units are Bob Buddecke for Electronic Solutions, Dave Marinick for Engines & Power Systems, and Rich DeGraff for Control Systems.

What is the estimated economic impact of Honeywell’s relocation to North Carolina?

Honeywell’s relocation to North Carolina was supported by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) that is estimated to grow the state’s economy by $7.9 billion over a 12-year period.

Key Features of Honeywell’s Strategic Spin-off and Leadership

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Author: HERE Charlotte

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