Systems Planning & Analysis Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Systems Planning & Analysis has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, and program management.

Driven by a commitment to national objectives, Systems Planning & Analysis delivers integrated solutions across programmatic, policy, and business domains, leveraging decades of expertise to address critical national challenges.

Leadership Roles at Systems Planning & Analysis

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Knight
  • Chief Financial Officer - R. Beattie
  • Chief Information Officer - Chad Materniak
  • Chief of Staff - Georgianna Sheppard
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Ky Quan
  • Chief of Staff, AUKUS I & A Phase III - David Ulicki
  • Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS - Damon Davey
  • Aukus Integration & Acquisition Program Chief of Staff (Srf-W, West) - Catherine Best
  • Chief of Staff & Senior VP - Aimee Dalton
  • Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff (Usn) - Michelle McGowan
  • John Knight - Chief Executive Officer

    John Knight, the Chief Executive Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. Knight guides the organization in providing analysis and integrated technical, operational, programmatic, policy, and business solutions. This leadership ensures alignment with critical national objectives, building upon the company's founding in 1972. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses driving innovation and maintaining the highest standards of service delivery across all business units. John Knight's strategic vision shapes the company's market position and future growth trajectory, fostering a culture of excellence and impactful problem-solving for national security and governmental clients. This executive role is central to the company's mission of delivering specialized expertise and actionable insights.

    R. Beattie - Chief Financial Officer

    R. Beattie, the Chief Financial Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, directs the company's financial strategy, planning, and management. Beattie oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring the company's financial health and compliance. This leadership is crucial for supporting the delivery of analysis and integrated technical, operational, programmatic, policy, and business solutions. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in resource allocation and investment decisions, aligning financial resources with strategic national objectives. R. Beattie's expertise ensures robust financial controls and drives sustainable growth for Systems Planning & Analysis. This executive role is fundamental to the company's operational stability and long-term success.

    Chad Materniak - Chief Information Officer

    Chad Materniak, the Chief Information Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, architects the company's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Materniak oversees the implementation and management of information systems that support the delivery of analysis and integrated solutions. This role is critical for ensuring robust cybersecurity, data integrity, and efficient technological operations across the organization. The Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation initiatives, enhancing the company's capabilities in programmatic, policy, and business solutions. Chad Materniak's leadership ensures that Systems Planning & Analysis leverages cutting-edge technology to meet evolving national objectives and client requirements. This executive ensures seamless integration of IT services, supporting operational effectiveness and strategic decision-making.

    Georgianna Sheppard - Chief of Staff

    Georgianna Sheppard, the Chief of Staff at Systems Planning & Analysis, facilitates strategic initiatives and operational alignment across executive leadership. Sheppard manages key projects and ensures effective communication between departments, supporting the delivery of analysis and integrated solutions. This role is vital for streamlining operations and enhancing the efficiency of programmatic, policy, and business functions. The Chief of Staff acts as a key advisor, driving critical organizational priorities and ensuring the company's strategic objectives are met. Georgianna Sheppard's contributions are essential for maintaining focus on national objectives and fostering a cohesive leadership team. This executive role supports the Chief Executive Officer in executing the company's mission.

    Ky Quan - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Ky Quan, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing the company's technology landscape. Quan assists in the implementation and maintenance of IT systems, ensuring operational efficiency and data security. This role is integral to delivering robust analysis and integrated solutions that meet national objectives. The Deputy Chief Information Officer contributes to strategic technology planning and execution, focusing on enhancing the company's digital capabilities. Ky Quan's efforts support the seamless operation of information technology, underpinning the delivery of programmatic, policy, and business solutions. This executive's work is vital for maintaining the technological backbone of Systems Planning & Analysis.

    David Ulicki - Chief of Staff, AUKUS I & A Phase III

    David Ulicki, the Chief of Staff, AUKUS I & A Phase III at Systems Planning & Analysis, spearheads critical initiatives within specialized program areas. Ulicki directs efforts related to the AUKUS program, ensuring the effective delivery of analysis and integrated solutions. This role is pivotal for managing complex projects and coordinating cross-functional teams to achieve specific national objectives. The Chief of Staff, AUKUS I & A Phase III focuses on advancing programmatic and policy objectives within these key defense partnerships. David Ulicki's leadership ensures strategic alignment and operational success for these high-priority engagements. This executive's focus is on driving tangible outcomes for Systems Planning & Analysis in critical international collaborations.

    Damon Davey - Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS

    Damon Davey, the Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS at Systems Planning & Analysis, supports strategic leadership within the Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems. Davey coordinates operational activities and ensures the effective execution of analysis and integrated solutions for naval programs. This role is essential for driving programmatic and policy advancements in critical defense systems. The Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS facilitates communication and collaboration, ensuring alignment with national objectives and client requirements. Damon Davey's contributions are key to enhancing the company's support for naval modernization and readiness. This executive's focus is on optimizing the delivery of specialized services to PEO IWS.

    Catherine Best - Aukus Integration & Acquisition Program Chief of Staff (Srf-W, West)

    Catherine Best, the Aukus Integration & Acquisition Program Chief of Staff (Srf-W, West) at Systems Planning & Analysis, leads strategic integration and acquisition efforts for the AUKUS initiative in specific regions. Best oversees the coordination of complex programs, ensuring the seamless delivery of analysis and integrated solutions critical to national security objectives. This role demands expertise in managing acquisition processes and fostering collaboration across international partners. The Aukus Integration & Acquisition Program Chief of Staff focuses on advancing programmatic and policy goals within this vital defense alliance. Catherine Best's leadership ensures effective execution and strategic alignment for Systems Planning & Analysis in key AUKUS-related activities. This executive drives critical integration and acquisition outcomes.

    Aimee Dalton - Chief of Staff & Senior VP

    Aimee Dalton, the Chief of Staff & Senior VP at Systems Planning & Analysis, provides executive leadership and strategic direction across multiple operational areas. Dalton manages key organizational initiatives and ensures the effective implementation of analysis and integrated solutions. This dual role emphasizes driving both strategic policy and operational execution to meet national objectives. The Chief of Staff & Senior VP collaborates closely with other leaders to enhance business development and service delivery. Aimee Dalton's comprehensive oversight contributes significantly to the company's mission and its ability to deliver specialized expertise. This executive's influence spans strategic planning and senior-level operational management.

    Michelle McGowan - Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff (Usn)

    Michelle McGowan, the Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff (Usn) at Systems Planning & Analysis, directs strategic operations for critical naval programs. McGowan oversees the integration and delivery of analysis and technical solutions supporting the Conventional Prompt Strike initiative for the U.S. Navy. This role is vital for advancing programmatic and policy objectives within this key defense capability. The Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff ensures seamless coordination and execution to meet stringent national objectives and operational requirements. Michelle McGowan's leadership is instrumental in driving the success of these specialized naval projects for Systems Planning & Analysis. This executive focuses on achieving critical mission outcomes for the U.S. Navy.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Systems Planning & Analysis Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Systems Planning & Analysis?
    Systems Planning & Analysis is led by John Knight (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as R. Beattie (Chief Financial Officer) and Chad Materniak (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Systems Planning & Analysis’s executive team?
    The executive team of Systems Planning & Analysis includes leaders such as John Knight (Chief Executive Officer), R. Beattie (Chief Financial Officer), Chad Materniak (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Systems Planning & Analysis have?
    Systems Planning & Analysis has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Systems Planning & Analysis’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Systems Planning & Analysis includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief Information Officer.