Today, BAE Systems announced that Linda Hudson has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, BAE Systems PLC, and President and CEO of BAE Systems, Inc. Linda was previously president of the company’s Land & Armaments Operating Group and takes over for General Tony Zinni, who was appointed as the Acting President and CEO of BAE Systems, Inc. in June 2009. Zinni will stay on to ensure a smooth transition, and will continue to serve as the Chairman of the BAE Systems, Inc. Board. Hudson was also named an executive director of the company.
As head of the Land & Armanents Operating Group, she led the acquisition of Armor Holdings Inc. which effectively doubled the size of the group`s land systems operations. The Land & Armaments Operating Group has developed into a global business operating across four home markets – US, UK, South Africa and Sweden. It is now the world`s largest manufacturer of land systems with annual sales having grown from $3.9 billion at the end of 2006 to $11.9 billion at the end of 2008.
“Linda is a highly respected and acknowledged global business leader with a wealth of experience managing businesses that have a diverse portfolio of programs, ” said BAE Systems chief executive Ian King. “Under her leadership, the Land & Armaments Operating Group has developed into a global business and is now the world`s largest manufacturer of land systems. Linda`s excellent leadership and knowledge of the defense industry will significantly benefit our business as we continue to deliver our strategy in support of our customers.
“We are extremely proud that a leader of Linda`s caliber will take BAE Systems, Inc. into the future as we work with our customers to ensure their challenges are understood and met, ” Zinni added.
Hudson is a graduate of the University of Florida, holding a bachelor`s degree, with honors, in Systems Engineering.
