Hexcel announces executive transition as Thierry Merlot plans 2026 retirement

Hexcel Corporation (NYSE:HXL) reported Monday that Thierry Merlot, President, Aerospace – EMEA/AP & Industrial, has informed the company’s board of directors of his intention to retire in 2026. In preparation for his retirement, Mr. Merlot will transition from his current role to become Executive Vice President – Strategy on or about September 29, 2025.

According to a statement released in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Hexcel’s ongoing succession planning process is expected to result in a successor being named to Mr. Merlot’s current position on or about September 29, 2025.

Hexcel, headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, is a manufacturer of advanced composites and materials. The company’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker HXL.

This information is based on a press release statement filed with the SEC.

In other recent news, Hexcel Corporation reported its first-quarter 2025 financial results, revealing a miss on both earnings per share (EPS) and revenue forecasts. The company posted an EPS of $0.37, falling short of the expected $0.43, and reported revenue of $456.5 million, below the anticipated $480.53 million. In response to these results, RBC Capital Markets and BMO Capital Markets adjusted their outlooks on Hexcel, with RBC reducing the price target to $62 while maintaining an Outperform rating, and BMO lowering it to $52 with a Market Perform rating. Both firms expressed concerns over the company’s earnings and highlighted ongoing challenges in the aerospace sector, particularly with the Airbus A350 production.

Additionally, Hexcel’s shareholders approved several key proposals during the company’s Annual Meeting, including the election of directors and an amendment to the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. The company also ratified the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as its independent auditor for 2025. Hexcel has revised its 2025 guidance, projecting flat growth in its end markets, and is taking steps to manage its financials through cost control measures, stock buybacks, and reduced capital expenditures. Despite the current challenges, Hexcel remains focused on strategic initiatives and operational efficiencies, anticipating margin improvements by the fourth quarter and into 2026.

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