Key Takeaways
- Leidos has appointed Theodore "Ted" Tanner Jr. as its new Chief Technology Officer, effective January 5.
- Tanner will be responsible for driving advancements in artificial intelligence, mission-critical software, cybersecurity, and quantum technologies.
- He brings over 30 years of experience in AI technology, having served in senior leadership roles at companies such as IBM Watson Health, Microsoft, and Apple.
- Tanner’s expertise includes delivering advanced AI and ML capabilities, including decision intelligence, logistics optimization, and real-time situational awareness.
- He will play a key role in driving Leidos’ growth priorities, as outlined in its NorthStar 2030 strategy.
Introduction to Leidos’ New CTO
Leidos, a leading technology company, has announced the appointment of Theodore "Ted" Tanner Jr. as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Tanner will succeed Jim Carlini, who has held the role since 2019, and will officially assume the position on January 5. As CTO, Tanner will be responsible for driving advancements in artificial intelligence, mission-critical software, cybersecurity, and quantum technologies. This appointment is a significant move for Leidos, as the company continues to focus on delivering innovative solutions to its customers in the defense, government, and healthcare sectors.
About Ted Tanner Jr.
Tanner is a seasoned AI technology executive with over 30 years of experience in the field. He joins Leidos from BigBear.ai, where he served as CTO for nearly two years. During his tenure at BigBear.ai, Tanner led the delivery of advanced AI and ML capabilities to various organizations, including the Department of War, CIA, and Defense Intelligence Agency. His expertise includes decision intelligence, manned-unmanned teaming, logistics optimization, and real-time situational awareness. Prior to BigBear.ai, Tanner held senior technology leadership roles at companies such as Merative, IBM Watson Health, and Microsoft. He also co-founded and served as CTO of PokitDok, a healthcare technology company.
Leadership Experience and Expertise
Tanner’s extensive experience in AI technology and leadership makes him an ideal fit for the CTO role at Leidos. He has a proven track record of delivering bold and disruptive technologies to customers in the defense, government, and healthcare sectors. His expertise in AI and ML will be invaluable in driving Leidos’ growth priorities, as outlined in its NorthStar 2030 strategy. Leidos CEO Tom Bell, a two-time Wash100 Award winner, praised Tanner’s entrepreneurial creativity and execution discipline, stating that his "track record of delivering bold, disruptive tech to defense, government and healthcare customers is a great fit with our capabilities and NorthStar 2030 growth priorities."
Role and Responsibilities
As CTO, Tanner will be responsible for driving innovation and growth at Leidos. He will focus on advancing the company’s capabilities in artificial intelligence, mission-critical software, cybersecurity, and quantum technologies. His role will involve working closely with Leidos’ customers, partners, and employees to identify and develop new technologies that can help solve complex problems in the defense, government, and healthcare sectors. Tanner’s expertise in AI and ML will be critical in driving Leidos’ growth priorities, and his leadership experience will help the company navigate the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The appointment of Ted Tanner Jr. as Leidos’ new CTO is a significant move for the company. With his extensive experience in AI technology and leadership, Tanner is well-positioned to drive innovation and growth at Leidos. His expertise in delivering advanced AI and ML capabilities will be invaluable in helping the company achieve its NorthStar 2030 growth priorities. As Leidos continues to focus on delivering innovative solutions to its customers, Tanner’s leadership and expertise will play a critical role in shaping the company’s future. With his appointment, Leidos is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of the technology industry, delivering cutting-edge solutions that address the complex challenges faced by its customers in the defense, government, and healthcare sectors.


