Bombardier is bringing back its former head of its business aircraft division, Eric Martel, to run the parent company as president and CEO, succeeding Alain Bellemare as president and CEO. The leadership change, which is effective April 6, comes as Bombardier positions itself to become a solely business aviation-focused company, selling off its other divisions. The company last month announced the proposed sale of its Bombardier Transportation (BT) unit—one of the final divisions outside of business aviation that Bombardier had left to sell—in a deal that Bellemare had called “transformational” and had said would conclude its turnaround plan.
“With the turnaround chapter closed, it is a natural time for me to move on,” Bellemare said. “I am incredibly proud of the work our talented team has done addressing many challenges and setting a strong foundation for future success…I’m confident that the future is bright for Bombardier." Bellemare had stepped into the role five years ago as the company faced a massive debt load that came with the development of the CSeries, as well as other programs such as the Learjet 85.
Martel returns from Hydro-Québec, where he has served as president and CEO since July 2015. There, he steered one of the largest producers of hydroelectricity in the world. Before that, he held a number of leadership posts with Bombardier, including president of the business aircraft division and president of the customer services and specialized aircraft division. Further, he has held key positions with Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, Procter & Gamble, and Kraft Foods.
“Eric is the right leader at the right time for Bombardier, as the company is completing its turnaround plan and focusing on growing its leading business aviation franchise,” said Bombardier chairman Pierre Beaudoin. “He is an engaging builder with a deep understanding of our organization and product portfolio as well as of the global business aircraft industry.”
He will be tasked with continuing the evolution of the company as it wraps up the sale of the train division next year. David Coleal, meanwhile, remains president of Bombardier Business Aviation, continuing to shepherd that business as it ramps up production of the Global 7500, as well as the Global 5500 and 6500.
