David M. Cote served as the CEO of Honeywell International Inc. from 2002 until 2017. During his time, he led the company through significant growth and strategic transformations, focusing on performance-based compensation that matched the company's goals. Cote was known...

David M. Cote served as the CEO of Honeywell International Inc. from 2002 until 2017. During his time, he led the company through significant growth and strategic transformations, focusing on performance-based compensation that matched the company's goals. Cote was known for his savvy business decisions that drove improvement across the board, leading Honeywell to achieve impressive financial results year after year. His leadership style emphasized long-term shareholder value and operational excellence. One interesting aspect of Cote's tenure was his impressive stock holdings in Honeywell. At one point, his shares were valued at over $300 million, showcasing his deep belief in the company’s potential. This vested interest aligned him with other shareholders, strengthening the company's culture. He also created smooth transition plans to ensure effective leadership, as seen in his move to Executive Chairman after stepping down as CEO. In terms of compensation, Cote's pay reflected his performance-oriented philosophy, peaking at over $20 million in 2017. His 2017 package included a significant stock option grant, underscoring his commitment to Honeywell’s future growth. Under his guidance, the company consistently delivered strong earnings, driving innovation while creating a unified corporate culture. Overall, Cote's leadership laid the groundwork for Honeywell's continued success in the competitive tech industry.