ARLINGTON, Virginia. In a planned leadership transition, RTX recently announced that President and Chief Operating Officer Christopher T. Calio will succeed Gregory J. Hayes as chief executive officer at the 2024 RTX Annual Shareowners Meeting scheduled for May 2. Hayes will continue to serve as executive chairman of RTX. Calio was also appointed to the company’s board of directors effective today.

“Today’s announcement reflects the Board’s deliberate, disciplined succession planning process,” said chairman and CEO Greg Hayes. “Chris has a deep understanding of the industry, our customers’ needs and our operations. I have every confidence in his ability to lead RTX and drive the company’s long-term success.”

“Greg has had a remarkable career leading RTX, his vision to transform from a conglomerate to a top global aerospace and defense company has created tremendous value for shareowners, employees and our nation,” said Fredric G. Reynolds, Board lead director.  “The Board looks forward to Greg’s continued influence and leadership as executive chairman.”

“The Board is very pleased to have Chris Calio succeed Greg Hayes as RTX CEO,” added Reynolds. “Chris has been disciplined in leading the company’s operations and strategic growth strategy. We look forward to working with and supporting Chris as he leads RTX to continued growth and success.”

“I deeply value the Board’s confidence in me and am grateful for the opportunity to lead the RTX team forward,” said Chris Calio. “I am honored to succeed Greg, who has built the best positioned portfolio in aerospace and defense.  As a leadership team, we are focused on driving operational excellence and accelerating technological innovation as we deliver on the record backlog of customer demand and meet shareowner expectations.”