John Hillen, former CEO of Sotera Defense Solutions, has joined private equity firm LLR Partners as an operating partner where he will evaluate new investment opportunities and develop strategies for LLR’s existing companies, the firm said Wednesday.
Hillen has taken on a number of roles within the past few months including chairman of the board of advisers at SOS International, a member of the board of directors at Software AG Government Solutions, vice chairman of Sotera’s board of advisers and executive in residence and professor of practice for George Mason University’s School of Management.
Prior to Sotera, he served as assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs, where he coordinated the U.S. diplomatic strategy with its military operations.
Hillen also served as president of CGI Federal and led the defense and intelligence business at American Management Systems.
“He has executed the same growth strategies and led businesses through the same challenges that our companies face today, ” said Dave Stienes, partner at LLR.
“John built a sub-$100M business into a $300M business, while dramatically diversifying the company and placing it in areas of importance within its government client community, ” Stienes added.
Hillen is a 12-year Army veteran and currently serves on the chief of naval operations’ executive panel, where he advises the head of the U.S. Navy.
“I am excited for the opportunity to work with LLR and help more government contractors grow by drawing from my own lessons learned as a CEO and federal official, ” said Hillen.
