United Technologies names new president of Sikorsky

United Technologies Corp. recently announced the appointment of Robert Leduc as president of Stratford-based Sikorsky Aircraft.

UTC, which serves as the parent company of Sikorsky, said the appointment is effective immediately.

Robert Leduc

Leduc replaces Mick Maurer as Sikorsky’s president, who will move to the newly created position of UTC senior vice president, strategic projects. Leduc spent 35 years in leadership roles at Pratt & Whitney, Hamilton Sundstrand and UTC Aerospace Systems before retiring last year. He will report to UTC President and CEO Gregory Hayes.

“It is a great pleasure to welcome Bob back to United Technologies as the new president of Sikorsky Aircraft,” Hayes said in a statement. “Across the aerospace industry, Bob is recognized as a proven leader, and he has the vision and experience necessary to lead Sikorsky today and as its future chief executive officer, should Sikorsky be spun off.”

UTC announced in March that it was exploring strategic alternatives for Sikorsky, including spinning off the company.

In his new role, Maurer will complete the strategic alternatives review for Sikorsky. He will be responsible for leading a separation should UTC pursue a spinoff.

“Under Mick’s leadership, Sikorsky positioned itself for a bright future,” Hayes said. “In his new position, Mick’s experience leading Sikorsky will provide unique perspective and insight as we complete our strategic review and determine the best way to enhance Sikorsky’s long-term success and create improved value for UTC’s customers and shareholders.”

United Technologies is based in Hartford and provides technology and services to the building and aerospace industries. Sikorsky Aircraft has headquarters on Main Street in Stratford.