Jim Kennedy
Executive Director of Government Security, Boeing Defense, Space & Security
Jim Kennedy’s career, spanning four decades in the Defense Department and intelligence community industrial security programs, took a pivotal turn when he joined The Boeing Company in 2023. He immediately set out to transform the government security’s look, feel and execution.
Right after joining, he performed a comprehensive review of the entire industrial security program and recommended fundamental changes to how the company manages its government security operations.
He dismantled the bureaucratic, regionally organized government security teams and strategically realigned them with BDS business partners and external customers. His efforts centralized products and services with a focus on eliminating bureaucracy.
“The most important ingredient we need in the BDS Government Security program is leadership,” he said. “Our employees deserve the best, and we need to provide them the support they need and the tools to be successful. We need to develop an integrated talent management strategy and drive a culture of continuous improvement. Our goal is simple ⏤ to be the employer of choice for those seeking a career in industrial security.”
Why Watch
This is a transformational year for BDS, and Kennedy is heavily focused on driving automation through the implementation of tools like the Security Information Management System and initiating performance-based metrics to make data driven solutions. He’s also emphasizing the company’s new culture and brand to help strengthen the progress already made.
“Jim’s expertise and engagement brought fresh perspective and immediate impact to Boeing Defense, Space & Security that in a short time has allowed us to make tangible improvements focused on supporting our employees, programs and customers,” said Steve Parker, chief operating officer of Boeing Defense, Space & Security.
Fun fact: Kennedy is a “car guy” who has bought 56 cars since he could drive. And that doesn’t even include all his motorcycles. His all-time favorite car is the Audi R8.