In a planned leadership transition, experienced chief executive, Gulf War veteran and pilot James (Jim) D Taiclet, has become president and CEO of Lockheed Martin Corporation. He succeeds Marillyn A Hewson, who has served as chairman, president and CEO since 2014 and president and CEO since 2013.

   Taiclet will continue to serve as a member of the corporation’s board, which he joined in 2018. Hewson will become executive chairman of the board and provide ongoing support for the leadership transition, a statement said.

“I come into this role at a time when our nation and its allies have been tested globally by new threats. I’m honoured to succeed Marillyn, who is one of the most respected CEOs in America, and to lead a workforce that is advancing the technology and security of our future,” Taiclet said.

This disciplined leadership transition reflects deliberate and thorough succession planning and is being implemented strategically at a time when Lockheed Martin is financially strong and positioned well for the future,” Hewson said.

“I have every confidence Jim and his executive leadership team will continue driving sustained success through sound business strategy, strong customer relationships and deep mission focus,” he added.