BAE Systems Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

BAE Systems has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, technology, and defense software.

Driven by innovation, BAE Systems is dedicated to providing advanced technologies and services across aerospace, defense, and security sectors, addressing complex global challenges with engineering excellence and integrated solutions.

Leadership Roles at BAE Systems

  • Chief Executive Officer - Craig Lockhart
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Thomas Arseneault
  • Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Arabian Industries - Abdulatif Alshaikh
  • Chief Operating Officer - Darren Kirkby
  • Chief of Staff - Sara Al-Salhi
  • IT Management, CSO Chief Technology Officer & Chief Information Officer - Stewart Farnham
  • Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Intelligence and Security - Ravi Ravichandran
  • Chief of Staff To the Chief Information Officer - Brittany Graf
  • Senior VP & Chief Human Resources Officer - Michelle Murphy
  • Defense Software Chief of Staff (US) - Chad Ohira
  • Craig Lockhart - Chief Executive Officer

    Craig Lockhart, the Chief Executive Officer at BAE Systems, directs the overarching strategy and global operations for the multinational aerospace, defense, and security company. Lockhart's leadership focuses on driving innovation and engineering capability across a broad portfolio, including military aircraft, naval platforms, land systems, and electronic and cyber solutions. This executive ensures BAE Systems effectively addresses complex security challenges for government and commercial customers worldwide. The role involves significant engagement with international programs and key global markets, emphasizing the delivery of integrated solutions and long-term product lifecycle support. Lockhart's strategic vision guides the company's participation in major defense initiatives, solidifying its market position. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering a culture of engineering excellence and technological advancement, crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the defense sector. Craig Lockhart's executive oversight ensures alignment with corporate objectives and sustained growth across all business units.
    Craig Lockhart

    Thomas Arseneault - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Arseneault, the President & Chief Executive Officer at BAE Systems, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution for the company's United States operations. Arseneault's leadership drives the development and delivery of advanced technologies and services within the aerospace, defense, and security sectors, serving government and commercial clients. This executive oversees a comprehensive portfolio encompassing military aircraft, naval platforms, land systems, electronic warfare, and cyber solutions. Thomas Arseneault's focus includes enhancing engineering capabilities and fostering innovation to meet complex security demands across key global markets. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures BAE Systems maintains its competitive advantage through integrated solutions and long-term product lifecycle support. Arseneault's role involves significant engagement with major international programs and strategic partnerships, reinforcing the company's commitment to technological advancement. The executive's oversight guarantees operational efficiency and strategic alignment with corporate objectives, driving sustained growth and market leadership.
    Thomas Arseneault

    Abdulatif Alshaikh - Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Arabian Industries

    Abdulatif Alshaikh, the Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Arabian Industries, directs the strategic growth and operational performance of BAE Systems' joint venture in the Middle East. Alshaikh leads the development and delivery of advanced defense and security solutions tailored to regional market needs, leveraging BAE Systems' global expertise. This executive oversees the expansion of capabilities in areas such as land systems, naval platforms, and electronic solutions, contributing to regional security and industrial development. Abdulatif Alshaikh's leadership focuses on fostering strong partnerships and ensuring the effective integration of BAE Systems' technologies within the Arabian Industries framework. The Chief Executive Officer drives operational excellence and innovation, supporting the company's commitment to providing high-quality products and services to government customers. Alshaikh's strategic direction ensures alignment with both regional requirements and BAE Systems' global objectives, reinforcing its presence in key international markets.

    Darren Kirkby - Chief Operating Officer

    Darren Kirkby, the Chief Operating Officer at BAE Systems, directs the company's extensive operational activities, ensuring efficient production and delivery of advanced aerospace, defense, and security solutions. Kirkby's leadership focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes, supply chain management, and program execution across a broad portfolio that includes military aircraft, naval platforms, and land systems. This executive drives operational excellence and innovation, supporting BAE Systems' commitment to providing cutting-edge technologies and services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Darren Kirkby's oversight is crucial for maintaining high standards of quality and performance in complex international programs. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that operational strategies align with the company's overall business objectives, contributing to sustained growth and market leadership. Kirkby's role involves enhancing engineering capability and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across global operations, enabling BAE Systems to address complex security challenges effectively.
    Darren Kirkby

    Sara Al-Salhi - Chief of Staff

    Sara Al-Salhi, the Chief of Staff at BAE Systems, provides critical strategic support and operational coordination across key executive functions. Al-Salhi's role involves facilitating communication and driving initiatives that align with the company's mission in aerospace, defense, and security. This executive works closely with senior leadership to ensure efficient execution of strategic priorities and operational plans. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include managing special projects, optimizing internal processes, and enhancing cross-functional collaboration to support the delivery of advanced technologies and services. Sara Al-Salhi's contributions are vital to maintaining operational momentum and ensuring that BAE Systems effectively addresses complex security challenges for its global customer base. The executive's focus on strategic alignment and operational effectiveness supports the company's commitment to innovation and engineering excellence across its diverse portfolio.

    Stewart Farnham - IT Management, CSO Chief Technology Officer & Chief Information Officer

    Stewart Farnham, the IT Management, CSO Chief Technology Officer & Chief Information Officer at BAE Systems, architects the company's technological vision and information infrastructure. Farnham leads the integration of advanced IT solutions and cutting-edge technologies across BAE Systems' aerospace, defense, and security operations. This executive is responsible for developing and implementing robust technology strategies that support innovation, enhance engineering capabilities, and ensure the secure delivery of advanced products and services to global clients. Stewart Farnham's role involves overseeing the company's digital transformation initiatives, cybersecurity measures, and the overall management of information systems critical to complex international programs. The Chief Technology Officer & Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments align with business objectives, driving operational efficiency and competitive advantage. Farnham's leadership fosters a culture of technological advancement, enabling BAE Systems to address evolving security challenges and maintain its position as a leader in advanced solutions.

    Ravi Ravichandran - Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Intelligence and Security

    Ravi Ravichandran, the Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Intelligence and Security at BAE Systems, drives technological innovation and strategy within the intelligence and security sectors. Ravichandran leads the development and application of advanced technologies that enhance BAE Systems' capabilities in providing sophisticated solutions to government and commercial clients. This executive focuses on pioneering new approaches in areas such as cyber security, data analytics, and secure communications, crucial for addressing complex global security challenges. Ravi Ravichandran's role involves translating technological advancements into practical applications that support the company's broad portfolio, including electronic and cyber solutions. The Vice President, Chief Technology Officer ensures that BAE Systems maintains a leading edge in technological development, fostering engineering excellence and integrated solutions. Ravichandran's strategic vision guides research and development efforts, reinforcing the company's commitment to innovation and long-term support across the lifecycle of its specialized products and services.
    Ravi Ravichandran

    Brittany Graf - Chief of Staff To the Chief Information Officer

    Brittany Graf, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Information Officer at BAE Systems, provides essential support in managing the technology and information strategy for the company. Graf collaborates closely with the Chief Information Officer to streamline operations, enhance communication, and drive key IT initiatives across BAE Systems' global operations. This executive plays a crucial role in coordinating projects, managing resources, and ensuring the efficient implementation of technology solutions that support the company's aerospace, defense, and security sectors. Brittany Graf's responsibilities include facilitating strategic planning sessions, optimizing workflows, and supporting the integration of advanced IT systems critical for delivering innovative products and services. The Chief of Staff To the Chief Information Officer contributes to maintaining operational effectiveness and ensuring that technology infrastructure robustly supports BAE Systems' complex programs and evolving market demands.

    Michelle Murphy - Senior VP & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Michelle Murphy, the Senior VP & Chief Human Resources Officer at BAE Systems, directs the company's global human capital strategy, talent management, and organizational development initiatives. Murphy's leadership focuses on cultivating a high-performing workforce and fostering a culture of innovation, engineering excellence, and inclusivity across BAE Systems' diverse operations. This executive oversees all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, compensation, benefits, employee relations, and leadership development, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic objectives in aerospace, defense, and security. Michelle Murphy plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent, essential for driving the company's technological advancements and delivering complex solutions to government and commercial customers worldwide. The Senior VP & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that BAE Systems' people strategies support sustained growth, operational efficiency, and the company's commitment to addressing critical global security challenges.
    Michelle Murphy

    Chad Ohira - Defense Software Chief of Staff (US)

    Chad Ohira, the Defense Software Chief of Staff (US) at BAE Systems, provides strategic and operational support for the company's defense software initiatives within the United States. Ohira's role involves coordinating key projects, facilitating cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring the efficient execution of software development and deployment strategies. This executive works closely with leadership to align software solutions with the evolving needs of defense clients, supporting BAE Systems' commitment to delivering advanced technologies and integrated services. Chad Ohira's focus on operational effectiveness and strategic alignment is critical for advancing the company's capabilities in areas such as command and control, intelligence, and cyber operations. The Defense Software Chief of Staff (US) contributes to optimizing processes and enhancing communication within the defense software division, ensuring BAE Systems maintains its competitive edge in a dynamic market.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BAE Systems Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BAE Systems?
    BAE Systems is led by Craig Lockhart (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Arseneault (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Abdulatif Alshaikh (Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Arabian Industries).
    Who is part of BAE Systems’s executive team?
    The executive team of BAE Systems includes leaders such as Craig Lockhart (Chief Executive Officer), Thomas Arseneault (President & Chief Executive Officer), Abdulatif Alshaikh (Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Arabian Industries) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does BAE Systems have?
    BAE Systems has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in BAE Systems’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of BAE Systems includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Arabian Industries, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff.