United Tech's Chairman Retires

United Technologies Corporation (UTX - Analyst Report) announced George David, 67, will retire as Chairman of the Board of Directors at the end of the year, concluding 34 years of service with UTC, including 14 years as Chief Executive Officer. Louis Chenevert, 52, President and Chief Executive Officer, will succeed David as Chairman, effective Jan 1, 2010, following his election by the UTC board. David will remain a consultant and adviser to the corporation for 2010. 

During George’s tenure, notable changes were UTC's global expansion, with international revenues growing from 25% to more than 60% today, and its focus on process and research disciplines. 

Since David took the helm in 1994, profit and revenue soared, with much of the success attributed to his hard-charging style. But with the start of the global recession last year, it is up to Chenevert to push through a large restructuring plan that will eliminate 11,600 jobs, or 5% of its global work force. 

United Technologies Corporation provides high technology products and services to the building systems and aerospace industries worldwide. Operating units include businesses with operations throughout the world. Otis, Carrier and UTC Fire & Security (collectively referred to as the commercial businesses) serve customers in the commercial and residential property industries worldwide; Carrier also serves commercial, industrial, transport refrigeration and food service equipment customers. Pratt & Whitney, Hamilton Sundstrand and Sikorsky (collectively referred to as the aerospace businesses) primarily serve commercial and government customers in both the original equipment and aftermarket parts and services markets of the aerospace industry; Hamilton Sundstrand and Pratt & Whitney also serve customers in certain industrial markets. Major competitors include Boeing Company (BA - Analyst Report) and General Electric Company (GE - Analyst Report). 

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