Textron Systems Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Textron Systems has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, and advanced technology development.

Focused on delivering aerospace and defense solutions, Textron Systems drives global security through the integration of advanced products and critical infrastructure protection services for diverse commercial and government clients.

Leadership Roles at Textron Systems

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Richard Erkeneff
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Thomas Hammoor
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Ellen Lord
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Todd Kackley
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Melanie Smith
  • Vice President, Advanced Technology - James Hall
  • Richard Erkeneff - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Richard Erkeneff, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Textron Systems, directs the overarching strategic vision for aerospace and defense operations. Erkeneff manages the alignment of product development with the complex requirements of global security and border patrol agencies. By prioritizing innovation in unmanned systems and electronic warfare, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains a competitive edge in international markets. Richard Erkeneff oversees the execution of long-term growth initiatives, coordinating closely with the board to optimize resource allocation across all business units. This leadership role demands constant evaluation of market trends to secure critical infrastructure protection contracts. Through rigorous operational oversight, the President & Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of excellence, driving the company toward sustained profitability while meeting the demanding standards of civil and commercial customers worldwide.

    Thomas Hammoor - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Hammoor, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Textron Systems, manages the delivery of specialized support services for aerospace and defense customers. Hammoor focuses on the expansion of regional market presence, ensuring that law enforcement and security agencies receive high-performance technical solutions. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Hammoor architects the operational framework necessary to scale production capabilities for critical infrastructure projects. Thomas Hammoor drives the integration of complex systems, ensuring that every product meets stringent safety and performance benchmarks. By fostering partnerships with key stakeholders, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the company's position as a leader in global defense technology. This role involves constant monitoring of supply chain efficiency and project timelines to guarantee client satisfaction. Through strategic leadership, Hammoor maintains the operational integrity required to support diverse commercial and government missions across multiple continents.
    Thomas Hammoor

    Ellen Lord - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ellen Lord, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Textron Systems, leads the development of advanced aerospace products designed for high-stakes defense environments. Lord oversees the implementation of rigorous quality control standards, ensuring that all integrated systems provide reliable protection for critical infrastructure. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Lord drives the company's commitment to technological advancement, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in security and border patrol applications. Ellen Lord coordinates with internal engineering teams to refine product offerings, ensuring alignment with the evolving needs of global customers. This leadership role requires deep engagement with industry regulators and defense partners to navigate complex procurement landscapes. By optimizing internal processes, the President & Chief Executive Officer enhances the company's ability to deliver rapid, effective solutions. Lord secures the organization's future by championing innovation and maintaining a relentless focus on operational excellence.

    Todd Kackley - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Todd Kackley, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Textron Systems, directs the digital transformation of internal enterprise systems. Kackley manages the cybersecurity infrastructure required to protect sensitive aerospace and defense data across all global operations. As the Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Kackley architects scalable cloud solutions that support the company's diverse product development teams. Todd Kackley oversees the implementation of advanced data analytics tools, providing leadership with actionable insights to improve manufacturing efficiency. This role involves constant collaboration with other C-suite executives to ensure that information technology investments directly support the company's strategic goals. By modernizing the digital landscape, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer mitigates operational risks and enhances connectivity between regional offices. Kackley drives the adoption of secure, high-performance computing environments, ensuring that the organization remains resilient against evolving cyber threats while maintaining seamless communication channels.

    Melanie Smith - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Melanie Smith, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Textron Systems, manages the integration of information technology into the company's manufacturing and supply chain processes. Smith focuses on the deployment of automated systems that streamline production workflows for aerospace and defense products. As the Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Smith architects robust network architectures that facilitate real-time collaboration between engineering and field support teams. Melanie Smith oversees the governance of information assets, ensuring compliance with international security standards for critical infrastructure protection. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging technologies to identify opportunities for operational improvement and cost reduction. By aligning IT strategy with business objectives, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer supports the company's ability to scale operations in response to global demand. Smith drives the implementation of advanced software solutions, ensuring that the organization maintains a technological advantage in the competitive defense sector.

    James Hall - Vice President, Advanced Technology

    James Hall, the Vice President, Advanced Technology at Textron Systems, directs the research and development of next-generation aerospace and defense solutions. Hall manages the innovation pipeline, focusing on emerging technologies that enhance the capabilities of unmanned systems and security platforms. As the Vice President, Advanced Technology, Hall architects the strategic roadmap for future product development, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of industry trends. James Hall oversees the collaboration between internal research teams and external academic partners to accelerate the transition from concept to deployment. This leadership role involves securing funding for high-impact projects that address the evolving needs of law enforcement and border patrol customers. By fostering a culture of experimentation, the Vice President, Advanced Technology drives the creation of proprietary technologies that provide a distinct market advantage. Hall ensures that all advanced research aligns with the company's mission to deliver superior protection and support.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Textron Systems Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Textron Systems?
    Textron Systems is led by Richard Erkeneff (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Hammoor (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Ellen Lord (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Textron Systems’s executive team?
    The executive team of Textron Systems includes leaders such as Richard Erkeneff (President & Chief Executive Officer), Thomas Hammoor (President & Chief Executive Officer), Ellen Lord (President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Textron Systems have?
    Textron Systems has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Textron Systems’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Textron Systems includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Vice President & Chief Information Officer.