Systems Planning & Analysis Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

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

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

    John Knight, the Chief Executive Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the organization. Knight guides the company's mission to provide analysis and integrated technical, operational, programmatic, policy, and business solutions supporting national objectives. This leadership involves setting the strategic vision, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring the delivery of high-impact services to clients. Knight's role encompasses driving business development, managing key stakeholder relationships, and overseeing all aspects of the company's performance and growth. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment across all departments, maintaining the company's commitment to excellence and its foundational purpose established in 1972. John Knight's executive oversight is critical for navigating complex national security landscapes and maintaining Systems Planning & Analysis's position as a trusted partner.

    R. Beattie - Chief Financial Officer

    R. Beattie, the Chief Financial Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the organization. Beattie oversees budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and capital management, ensuring the company's financial health and sustainability. This leadership role is vital for supporting the delivery of analysis and integrated solutions that meet important national objectives. The Chief Financial Officer manages financial risk, optimizes resource allocation, and ensures compliance with all relevant financial regulations. Beattie's responsibilities include developing financial models to support strategic decision-making and driving profitability. R. Beattie's financial acumen is essential for maintaining the operational integrity and long-term growth of Systems Planning & Analysis, underpinning its capacity to serve national interests effectively.

    Chad Materniak - Chief Information Officer

    Chad Materniak, the Chief Information Officer at Systems Planning & Analysis, architects and manages the company's information technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Materniak oversees the implementation of secure, scalable, and efficient IT systems that support the organization's analytical and operational capabilities. This involves directing cybersecurity initiatives, managing data governance, and ensuring the technological backbone effectively supports the delivery of complex solutions for national objectives. The Chief Information Officer plays a crucial part in leveraging technology to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and protect sensitive information. Materniak's responsibilities extend to evaluating emerging technologies and integrating them to maintain a competitive edge. Chad Materniak's leadership ensures that Systems Planning & Analysis possesses the robust technological resources necessary to fulfill its mission.

    Georgianna Sheppard - Chief of Staff

    Georgianna Sheppard, the Chief of Staff at Systems Planning & Analysis, provides strategic support and operational coordination across the executive leadership team. Sheppard facilitates the execution of key initiatives, manages cross-functional projects, and ensures alignment with the company's mission of delivering analysis and integrated solutions for national objectives. This role involves streamlining communication, optimizing workflows, and enhancing organizational efficiency. The Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison, bridging strategic planning with day-to-day operations. Sheppard's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing special projects, and driving process improvements. Georgianna Sheppard's operational expertise is critical for enabling the leadership team to effectively guide Systems Planning & Analysis in its support of important national goals.

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

    Michelle McGowan, the Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff (Usn) at Systems Planning & Analysis, directs critical operational planning and execution for specialized naval strike initiatives. McGowan oversees the integration of technical, programmatic, and policy solutions essential for supporting advanced naval capabilities and national defense objectives. This leadership position involves coordinating complex strike missions, ensuring seamless collaboration between naval forces and analytical support teams. The Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff (Usn) is responsible for optimizing operational readiness and effectiveness in high-stakes environments. McGowan's role requires deep understanding of naval operations and strategic planning to deliver precise, impactful solutions. Michelle McGowan's focused leadership is vital for enhancing the effectiveness of conventional prompt strike capabilities within the US Navy.

    Damon Davey - Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS

    Damon Davey, the Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS at Systems Planning & Analysis, supports the strategic direction and operational management of the Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems. Davey assists in coordinating the delivery of technical, programmatic, and business solutions that enhance naval combat systems and support national security objectives. This role involves facilitating communication, managing project timelines, and ensuring the effective implementation of PEO IWS initiatives. The Deputy Chief of Staff for PEO IWS contributes to the seamless execution of complex defense programs. Davey's responsibilities include supporting strategic planning efforts and ensuring operational alignment across various integrated warfare systems. Damon Davey's dedicated support is crucial for the success of PEO IWS operations and Systems Planning & Analysis's contribution to naval modernization.

    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, leads the strategic coordination and execution of critical phases for the AUKUS initiative. Ulicki directs the integration of technical, operational, and programmatic solutions essential for advancing trilateral security cooperation and national objectives. This leadership role involves managing complex project timelines, fostering collaboration among international partners, and ensuring the successful delivery of advanced capabilities. The Chief of Staff, AUKUS I & A Phase III is responsible for navigating the intricate policy and operational landscapes of this significant geopolitical partnership. Ulicki's expertise is vital for driving progress in Phase III of the AUKUS initiative. David Ulicki's focused management ensures Systems Planning & Analysis effectively supports the strategic goals of the AUKUS partnership.

    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, spearheads the integration and acquisition strategies for critical AUKUS programs on the West Coast. Best directs the complex coordination of technical, operational, and programmatic elements necessary to advance trilateral security objectives and national interests. This leadership position involves overseeing acquisition processes, ensuring seamless integration of advanced capabilities, and fostering robust collaboration among partner nations. The Aukus Integration & Acquisition Program Chief of Staff (Srf-W, West) is pivotal in managing the strategic implementation of AUKUS initiatives within specific operational theaters. Best's focus on the West Coast ensures localized strategic alignment. Catherine Best's dedicated oversight is essential for the successful execution and advancement of AUKUS integration and acquisition programs.

    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 organization's technology landscape and digital transformation efforts. Quan assists in the development and implementation of IT strategies, ensuring the security, reliability, and scalability of systems that underpin the company's analytical and operational solutions for national objectives. This role involves overseeing IT projects, managing infrastructure, and contributing to cybersecurity initiatives. The Deputy Chief Information Officer plays a key part in maintaining technological advancements and operational efficiency. Quan's responsibilities include supporting the integration of new technologies and ensuring robust data management practices. Ky Quan's collaborative efforts are vital for strengthening the technological foundation of Systems Planning & Analysis.

    Aimee Dalton - Chief of Staff & Senior VP

    Aimee Dalton, the Chief of Staff & Senior VP at Systems Planning & Analysis, provides comprehensive strategic and operational leadership across key organizational functions. Dalton directs initiatives that enhance the delivery of analysis and integrated solutions supporting important national objectives, working closely with executive leadership. This dual role involves managing high-priority projects, optimizing internal processes, and ensuring strategic alignment across the company. The Chief of Staff & Senior VP is instrumental in driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Dalton's responsibilities include overseeing critical business operations and supporting the company's growth strategies. Aimee Dalton's extensive leadership ensures Systems Planning & Analysis effectively meets its commitments to national security and client success.

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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, Conventional Prompt Strike Chief of Staff (Usn).