EVENDALE, Ohio - Today, W. James McNerney, 47, formally assumes the role of President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GE Aircraft Engines (GEAE), which is headquartered here.
McNerney was named GEAE's President and CEO in August. He replaced Gene Murphy, who was promoted to Vice Chairman of the Board and Executive Officer of General Electric Company, GEAE's parent company which is headquartered in Fairfield, Connecticut. Murphy had served GEAE since 1993.
"GEAE has entered an exciting time in the company's history," McNerney said. "The company is well-positioned as the leader in jet engine products and services as the aviation industry continues to experience great change. GEAE has a technology prowess and commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and service that is recognized worldwide."
McNerney brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role at GEAE. For the past two years, he headed GE Lighting, based in Cleveland, Ohio, as its President and CEO. Prior to that responsibility, McNerney served as GE President for GE Asia/Pacific in Hong Kong, where he significantly increased the presence of GE's 12 businesses in the region and assisted with key GEAE sales campaigns.
Earlier, McNerney headed three GE businesses: Mobile Communications, Information Services, and Electrical Distribution and Control. He was also an Executive Vice President with GE Capital Services. Prior to joining GE in 1982, he worked with the management consulting firm of McKinsey & Co. He began his career in Cincinnati in brand management with Procter & Gamble.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, McNerney earned a BA degree from Yale University and an MBA from Harvard University.