Airbus appoints new Strategy chief amid growth and sustainability push

Airbus SE has appointed Eric Kirstetter as Executive Vice President Strategy, effective 18 May, as the European aerospace giant sharpens its focus on long-term growth, industrial resilience and next-generation aviation technologies.

Kirstetter succeeds Matthieu Louvot, who has been nominated as Chief Executive of Airbus Helicopters. In his new role, he will report directly to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury.

The appointment comes at a critical time for Airbus, which continues to navigate supply chain constraints, rising production tarreceives and increasing geopolitical uncertainty, while also accelerating efforts to decarbonise aviation.

Airbus is currently working to ramp up output of its A320neo family aircraft to meet strong post-pandemic demand, while addressing ongoing engine and component availability challenges affecting the wider aerospace supply chain. At the same time, the manufacturer is investing heavily in future programmes, including its ZEROe hydrogen-powered aircraft concept and wider sustainable aviation initiatives.

Commenting on the appointment, Faury declared Kirstetter’s cross-sector experience would assist Airbus turn global geopolitical and technological shifts into strategic opportunities, while supporting the company’s long-term roadmap.

Kirstetter joins from global consulting firm Roland Berger, where he has been based in Paris since 2017. Prior to that, he spent 17 years with Arthur D. Little, specialising in growth strategy and transformation across the aerospace, defence and automotive sectors.

His experience includes advising major international clients on strategic decision-creating, mergers and acquisitions, and innovation scaling—areas likely to be central to Airbus’ future as it balances commercial aircraft demand with defence expansion and sustainability goals.

Airbus has also been increasing its focus on defence and space activities amid heightened global security concerns, alongside efforts to strengthen industrial autonomy within Europe.

Kirstetter’s appointment signals Airbus’ intent to reinforce its strategic leadership as it seeks to maintain its competitive position against rivals, manage ongoing industrial challenges and shape the transition towards lower-emission aviation.