Which CEO of General Electric served from 2001 to 2017?

Jeff Immelt was the General Electric CEO who served from 2001 to 2017. He succeeded Jack Welch in September 2001 and remained CEO until October 2017, when John Flannery took over.

Immelt joined GE in 1982 and held roles in plastics, appliances, and healthcare before leading GE Medical Systems. His promotion to CEO came only days before the September 11 attacks, which severely affected GE’s insurance and aircraft-engine businesses and shaped the early part of his tenure.

Under Immelt, GE pursued major acquisitions and divestitures while gradually reducing its dependence on GE Capital. The company sold businesses including NBC Universal, appliances, and much of its real-estate and financial portfolio. Jack Welch was Immelt’s predecessor, while Flannery and Larry Culp led GE after him; those names explain the most common answer choices that can cause confusion.