G&H Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

G&H has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, human resources, and executive leadership.

Driven by innovation, G&H designs, develops, and manufactures advanced optical and light-based systems, supplying precision acoustooptics, electrooptics, fiber optics, and custom optical solutions to global aerospace, defense, life sciences, industrial, and scientific research sectors.

Leadership Roles at G&H

  • Chief Operating Officer - Gary Nettles
  • President - Robert Podlena
  • Chief Information Officer - James Milkay
  • Chief People Officer - Melinda Chudleigh
  • Gary Nettles - Chief Operating Officer

    Gary Nettles, the Chief Operating Officer at G&H, manages the company's day-to-day operational activities and production processes. Nettles drives efficiency and quality across all manufacturing and development functions, ensuring G&H's advanced optical and light-based systems meet stringent global standards. This executive oversees supply chain management, manufacturing output, and operational scaling to support the company's diverse market demands in aerospace, defense, life sciences, and industrial sectors. Gary Nettles's leadership ensures seamless integration between design, engineering, and production teams, facilitating the timely delivery of precision acoustooptics, electrooptics, and fiber optics solutions. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight is critical for maintaining G&H's reputation for excellence and innovation in optical engineering, directly impacting the company's ability to serve scientific research and industrial clients worldwide.

    Robert Podlena - President

    Robert Podlena, the President at G&H, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the company's global operations. Podlena guides G&H's vision in photonics technology and optical engineering, overseeing the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced optical and light-based systems. This leadership position ensures alignment across all business units, driving growth and innovation in markets including aerospace and defense, life sciences, industrial, and scientific research. Robert Podlena's focus is on strengthening G&H's market position by delivering high-quality, custom optical solutions and precision acoustooptics, electrooptics, and fiber optics. The President's strategic oversight is crucial for navigating complex global markets and maintaining G&H's commitment to technological advancement and customer satisfaction worldwide.
    Robert Podlena

    James Milkay - Chief Information Officer

    James Milkay, the Chief Information Officer at G&H, directs the company's information technology strategy and infrastructure. Milkay oversees the development and implementation of all technology solutions, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management across the organization. This leadership role supports G&H's global operations by providing the digital backbone necessary for advanced photonics design and manufacturing. Milkay's focus includes optimizing internal systems to enhance collaboration among engineering, production, and sales teams. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments align with G&H's mission to deliver cutting-edge optical solutions to aerospace, defense, life sciences, and industrial markets worldwide. By driving digital transformation, Milkay strengthens G&H's competitive edge in the photonics technology sector.

    Melinda Chudleigh - Chief People Officer

    Melinda Chudleigh, the Chief People Officer at G&H, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies. Chudleigh cultivates a high-performance culture that supports G&H's innovation in photonics technology and optical engineering. This role involves developing programs for employee engagement, professional development, and organizational design, ensuring G&H attracts and retains top talent across its global operations. Melinda Chudleigh's expertise is vital in fostering an environment where engineers and scientists can thrive while designing and manufacturing advanced optical solutions for aerospace, defense, life sciences, and industrial markets. The Chief People Officer ensures that G&H's workforce is equipped with the skills and motivation to drive the company's mission forward, supporting its position as a leader in optical engineering and light-based systems.
    Melinda Chudleigh

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding G&H Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads G&H?
    G&H is led by Gary Nettles (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Robert Podlena (President) and James Milkay (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of G&H’s executive team?
    The executive team of G&H includes leaders such as Gary Nettles (Chief Operating Officer), Robert Podlena (President), James Milkay (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does G&H have?
    G&H has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in G&H’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of G&H includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Information Officer, Chief People Officer.