Key Takeaways
- Leidos has appointed Theodore "Ted" Tanner Jr. as its new Chief Technology Officer to accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence, mission-critical software, and cyber and quantum solutions.
- Tanner will succeed Jim Carlini, who has been Leidos’ CTO since 2019 and will remain as a senior advisor to the CEO on national security matters.
- Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 strategy focuses on driving growth in areas such as space and maritime domains, digital modernization, and full-spectrum cyber, with a emphasis on leveraging artificial intelligence to deliver outcomes.
- Tanner brings extensive experience in AI, machine learning, and technology development, with a track record of delivering bold and disruptive tech solutions to defense, government, and healthcare customers.
Introduction to Leidos’ New CTO
Leidos, a leading industry and technology company, has announced the appointment of Theodore "Ted" Tanner Jr. as its new Chief Technology Officer. Tanner will succeed Jim Carlini, who has been serving as Leidos’ CTO since 2019 and has played a crucial role in shaping the company’s technological foundation. As the new CTO, Tanner will be responsible for accelerating the deployment of artificial intelligence, mission-critical software, and cyber and quantum solutions to address the most pressing challenges faced by Leidos’ customers.
Background and Experience of Ted Tanner
Tanner brings a wealth of experience in technology development, having served as the chief technology and strategy officer at BigBear.ai, where he led the development of AI and machine learning capabilities for the U.S. Department of War and intelligence and civilian agencies. Prior to joining BigBear.ai, Tanner held various leadership positions at several Silicon Valley companies, including Apple and Microsoft. He also co-founded startups PokitDok and BeliefNetworks, and currently sits on the scientific advisory board of QuiverBioscience, which is applying AI to the development of treatments for brain disorders. Tanner holds 18 U.S. patents in AI, machine learning, and other technologies, demonstrating his expertise and innovative approach to technology development.
Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 Strategy
Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 strategy is designed to drive growth and set the company apart in areas such as space and maritime domains, digital modernization, and full-spectrum cyber. The strategy also emphasizes the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence to deliver outcomes and drive innovation. With Tanner on board, Leidos is well-positioned to accelerate its progress in these areas and enhance its capabilities in mission-critical software, managed health services, and energy infrastructure. The company’s focus on AI and technology development is expected to empower developers to build autonomous systems that can orchestrate critical missions for customers across growing markets in defense, health, quantum computing, and more.
Leadership and Vision
Leidos’ CEO, Tom Bell, expressed his enthusiasm for Tanner’s appointment, stating that he is a high-impact leader who pairs entrepreneurial creativity with execution discipline to solve tough deep-technology challenges. Bell also thanked Jim Carlini for his leadership and contributions to the company, noting that he will remain as a senior advisor on national security matters. Tanner’s vision for Leidos is to propel the company into an agentic AI leader, empowering developers to build autonomous systems that can address the most pressing challenges faced by customers. With his extensive experience and expertise in AI and technology development, Tanner is well-equipped to lead Leidos’ technological innovation and drive growth in the years to come.
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, the company has 47,000 global employees and reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. With a strong focus on innovation and technology development, Leidos is committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that address the most pressing challenges faced by its customers. The appointment of Ted Tanner as CTO is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and the company is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.
