Leidos Announces New Chief Technology Officer
Leidos (NYSE: LDOS) has appointed Theodore “Ted” Tanner Jr. as its new Chief Technology Officer to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence, mission‑critical software, and cybersecurity solutions.
Leadership Transition
Tanner, formerly Chief Technology and Strategy Officer at BigBear.ai, will replace Jim Carlini on January 5, 2026. Carlini, who has served as Leidos CTO since 2019, will remain as a senior advisor to CEO Tom Bell on national security matters.
Executive Endorsements
Tom Bell praised Tanner’s leadership, highlighting his entrepreneurial creativity and execution discipline as a great fit for Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 growth priorities. Bell also thanked Carlini for his contributions to the company’s technological foundation and national security efforts.
Tanner’s Vision
Tanner expressed enthusiasm about joining Leidos, emphasizing his commitment to positioning the company as a leader in agentic AI and empowering developers to build autonomous systems for critical missions in defense, health, quantum computing, and more.
Professional Background
Before BigBear.ai, Tanner held positions at IBM Watson Health, applying advanced technologies to genomics, pharmacology, and oncology. He has co‑founded startups such as PokitDok and BeliefNetworks and holds 18 U.S. patents in AI, machine learning, and other technologies.
Tanner’s extensive experience in AI and machine learning, combined with his background at Silicon Valley companies like Apple and Microsoft, makes him a valuable addition to the Leidos team.
NorthStar 2030 Strategy
As Leidos focuses on its NorthStar 2030 strategy—including advancements in space and maritime domains, digital modernization, cybersecurity, managed health services, mission software, and energy infrastructure—Tanner’s leadership will be crucial in driving innovation and delivering cutting‑edge solutions to customers.
