David Cote is a distinguished American businessman renowned for his transformative leadership in the corporate sector. He began his career at General Electric (GE) in 1976, where he spent over two decades honing his skills across various functions including manufacturing, finance, and strategic planning. His pivotal moment came in 1985 when he impressed CEO Jack Welch, leading to a rapid promotion through the ranks. By 1996, Cote was appointed CEO of GE Appliances, where he further demonstrated his capacity for driving operational excellence and innovation.
In 1999, Cote transitioned to TRW Inc. as president and COO, where he introduced the Six Sigma management system, significantly enhancing manufacturing quality and efficiency. His leadership culminated in his appointment as CEO in 2001, during which he spearheaded the creation of Velocium, a subsidiary focused on ultra-high-speed semiconductors, showcasing his forward-thinking approach to technology and market needs.
Cote’s most notable achievement came when he took the helm at Honeywell International in 2002, following its acquisition by AlliedSignal. Under his guidance, Honeywell overcame significant financial challenges, including a $220 million loss in his first year. He implemented conservative accounting practices and a new productivity management system, resulting in improved quality, reduced costs, and a robust recovery during the 2008-2009 recession, all while maintaining employee morale through strategic furloughs instead of layoffs.
After stepping down as CEO in 2017, Cote continued to influence the industry as the executive chairman of Vertiv. His leadership philosophy emphasizes long-term success alongside immediate performance, a principle he articulated in his book “Winning Now, Winning Later.” Cote’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainable practices has earned him recognition, including the prestigious Deming Cup for Operational Excellence from Columbia Business School in 2016, solidifying his legacy as a transformative leader in American business.