The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced March 17, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person May 10.
Next is Chief Security Officer finalist in the Public & Private Company category James Kennedy, who is head of the Security Services Department and chief security officer at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. Below, he talks career decisions, current initiatives, career advice and more.
Tell us a bit about your role, perspective and recent initiatives.
The past year and a half has been one of the most impactful times of my professional career. After spending nearly 40 years in the U.S. Department of Defense and Intelligence Community Industrial security programs, I made the decision to come to MIT Lincoln Laboratory, a Federally Funded Research and Development Center, as Chief Security Officer of the Security Services Department.
This decision led to me being recognized as one of the top 15 CSOs to watch in 2022 by WashingtonExec, and a nomination to their Chief Executive of the Year Award, of which I am a finalist. I am so proud to have been recognized in these ways, as well as hope to continue to share my knowledge as the newly elected Vice Chairperson of the National Defense Industrial Association’s Security and Counterintelligence Division.
When I came to the Laboratory, I brought a fresh perspective ⏤ my own. After several months of observing and learning about the Department, I brought to light a challenge they were experiencing, but not recognizing, which is that people are the business we are in. It was necessary to shift our focus to reflect that.
To begin our journey, my team and I took SSD from a vertical structure to a horizontal one. Breaking down these barriers has strengthened the bond between all SSD members, and has provided an equal voice for each member of our Department.
To coincide with that, one of our major initiatives has been to push decision-making downward to the staff. I support the idea of managing up, which is about using the traits of a good manager to help bring out the best in not only themselves, but also their staff. I work every day to continuously support and be a champion for each SSD employee, and encourage them to be their best selves.
I truly believe that staff development, growth and the advancement of each individual in the department is key. My vision for the future is for everyone to succeed and achieve their goals, and once those are achieved, I encourage them to aim even higher! To help accomplish this, I created the Strategy and Project Management Office within SSD. This is my vision of a group that fosters open, continuous feedback from all Department members, while facilitating both internal and external engagement.
My advice to all, no matter what career they are in, is to be present, engaged, and an active participant in your career. Listen to hear and understand people, not just to respond. Remember that the way you hold yourself is important ⏤ walk with confidence, poise, and passion with whatever you choose to do. You never know who might be watching.
Going forward, my primary focus is on our people, then on the technology and innovation of the Laboratory. Technical competence comes with time, but soft skills, building culture, and being able to meet people where they are, is crucial. Because people are the business that we are in.