Ipswich, Suffolk, UK - September 21, 2011 - David Withers has been promoted to president of Jacobsen, effective October 1, 2011. David has been serving as managing director of the UK-based Ransomes Jacobsen division of the US turf maintenance equipment manufacturer, since January 2005, overseeing international operations for all Jacobsen brands as well as the E-Z-GO brand in Europe. Ransomes Jacobsen, Jacobsen and E-Z-GO are Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) companies.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity. Having worked in the golf and turf maintenance industry for over 25 years, 19 of those with the Jacobsen team, this appointment is what I have always aspired to. I look forward to working with the team, growing our market share around the world and continuing Jacobsen’s leadership in turf maintenance products,” he said.

David joined Textron in 1992 as a regional sales manager for Jacobsen in the UK. In 1996, he was promoted to the position of national accounts manager, where he focused on developing business with key customers across Europe. In 2002, he was promoted to sales and marketing director before his appointment in 2005 as managing director of Ransomes Jacobsen.

“David is a proven leader in the golf and turf industry and is highly respected amongst his peers and customers. With his broad international experience - which spans over 45 countries - and his strong track record in business development and operational excellence, I am confident that he is the right person to maximize the growth opportunities that lie ahead for Jacobsen,” says Scott Donnelly, Textron CEO.

David will succeed Dan Wilkinson, who is retiring from the company after 14 years of service to Textron. Under Dan’s leadership, Jacobsen made great strides in improving its operating efficiency and reinvigorating its product offering, including the introduction of the innovative Jacobsen Eclipse 322 - the world's first hybrid riding greens mower.

For more information about Ransomes Jacobsen visit: www.ransomesjacobsen.com

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. For more information visit: http://www.textron.com/.