Leading Expert Eric Kirstetter Joins Airbus as EVP Strategy

Airbus SE  has confirmed the airbus appointment of Eric Kirstetter as Executive Vice President Strategy. Effective 18 May, this move marks a key leadership transition. He succeeds Matthieu Louvot, who has been nominated CEO of Airbus Helicopters. In this role, Kirstetter will report directly to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury.

Eric Kirstetter to Lead Airbus Strategy Transition

In his new position, Eric Kirstetter will lead Airbus’ global strategy function, overseeing the company’s long-term planning and strategic direction. The role is central to aligning business priorities with evolving market conditions, technological developments, and geopolitical dynamics impacting the aerospace and defence sectors.

The transition follows Matthieu Louvot’s move to Airbus Helicopters, reflecting an internal leadership reshuffle within the group. Kirstetter’s appointment ensures continuity in strategic leadership at a time when Airbus is navigating complex global industry shifts.

Role Scope and Responsibilities

As Executive Vice President Strategy, Kirstetter will be responsible for shaping Airbus’ corporate strategy, supporting transformation initiatives, and contributing to the execution of its long-term roadmap. His responsibilities include identifying growth opportunities, guiding strategic investments, and aligning innovation priorities with business objectives.

The role also involves working closely with senior leadership to address challenges arising from global supply chain dynamics, technological advancements, and shifting demand patterns across commercial aviation, defence, and related sectors.

Eric Kirstetter: A Proven Background in Aerospace

Eric Kirstetter joins Airbus from Roland Berger, where he was based in the firm’s Paris office and advised on strategic and transformation projects. His consulting experience spans multiple industries, including aerospace, defence, and automotive, providing him with cross-sector insights into industrial and technological trends.

Prior to Roland Berger, he spent 17 years at Arthur D. Little, where he worked on strategic planning, transformation programmes, mergers and acquisitions, and innovation scaling across international markets. His experience includes supporting organisations in navigating complex operational and strategic challenges.

Eric Kirstetter: Academic Credentials and Expertise

Eric Kirstetter holds a degree in mechanical engineering from ISAE Supmeca and a master’s degree in international industrial management from HEC Paris. His academic background combines technical expertise with business and management training, supporting his role in strategic decision-making within an engineering-driven industry.

Company Context and Leadership Perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury highlighted the timing of Kirstetter’s arrival, noting that the company is focused on sustaining growth, advancing innovation, and responding to global industry changes. He added that Kirstetter’s experience across aerospace and related sectors would support Airbus in addressing emerging challenges and opportunities.

The appointment comes as Airbus continues to strengthen its strategic capabilities amid evolving geopolitical conditions and rapid technological developments. With a focus on long-term planning and transformation, the strategy function plays a critical role in guiding the company’s direction and maintaining competitiveness in the global aerospace market.

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