Barnes Aerospace, part of the Bristol-based Barnes Group, which was sold in a private equity deal earlier last year, has appointed a new CEO.
George Whittier will lead the company, which provides component repair services and highly engineered parts to the aerospace industry.
Current Barnes Aerospace President Ian Reason will remain with Barnes Group as a senior vice president through December 2025 to ensure what the company calls a seamless transition.
Whittier most recently served as CEO of Fairbanks Morse Defense, a defense contractor based in Wisconsin that operates principally in marine engines.
“This new role is part of the strategic evolution of Barnes Aerospace to an independent platform,” said Thomas J. Hook, President and CEO of Barnes Group. “George is an ideal leader recognized for his sharp strategic vision, strong commercial acumen and a unique ability to drive operational excellence. We have a terrific platform, and we look forward to George taking our Aerospace business to the next level and driving further commercial growth.”
Barnes Group was acquired in January by private equity firm Apollo Global Management in a $3.6 billion sale, which took the company private.
The group has since announced it will close its corporate headquarters in Bristol, cutting about 28 jobs. Barnes Group and its predecessor, Associated Spring, have been located in Bristol since 1857.
“Barnes Aerospace has a distinguished reputation in the industry as a global supplier of choice and is at an exciting point in its growth journey,” said Whittier. “I look forward to working closely with Tom, the Board and the global Barnes Aerospace team to unlock the business’ full potential and continue delivering exceptional value for our stakeholders in this opportunity-rich environment.”
