Marni Puente is building SAIC’s marketing and communications function around a clear premise: government decision-makers want mission partners that can prove their value with speed and precision.
To sharpen that case, her team analyzed over 600,000 market data points and feedback from nearly 200 customers and prospects, then used the findings to shape how the function operates as a strategic growth engine across SAIC’s defense, space, intelligence and civilian markets.
Puente, chief marketing and communications officer at SAIC, is a finalist for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards in the Private Company CMO or Marketing Executive of the Year category. The event takes place live June 2.
Here, Puente discusses how data and AI are reshaping SAIC’s marketing function, why she encourages teams to step into unfamiliar territory, and the lessons that have shaped her leadership style.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
As Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, I am focused on structuring all strategic efforts and campaigns around data-driven decision-making to amplify SAIC as a differentiated mission partner across the government market. An analysis we conducted of more than 600,000 market data points and feedback from nearly 200 customers and prospects reported our government decision-makers increasingly expect mission integration partners that can communicate their mission value with greater speed, precision, and insight.
Building on these insights ensures the marketing and communications function operates as a strategic growth engine — clearly articulating our expertise in connecting technologies, data, and environments to deliver operational mission outcomes across defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets.
A key element of my leadership is driving the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across operations, and I will continue empowering my teams and the broader enterprise to integrate AI technologies into workflows. Having AI embedded has not only improved and modernized SAIC’s marketing and communications capabilities, but positions SAIC as an organization that can operate at the speed and scale required of today’s government contractors.
Demonstrating how data-driven campaigns and AI innovation can deliver measurable value, strengthen relationships with our customers, and impact growth is a top priority. I look forward to continuing to highlight the critical work SAIC delivers in support of government missions.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
My best career advice is to stay open to possibility and never stop learning. Say “yes” to opportunities that challenge you, expand your perspective, and build new skills — even if they take you outside your comfort zone. Some of the most rewarding growth comes from experiences that stretch you in unexpected ways.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that the greatest opportunities for innovation and transformation often come from stepping into unfamiliar territory and remaining adaptable through change – AI adoption is a great example. I often say, “with challenge comes growth,” and that mindset has shaped how I lead teams, navigate change, and approach new opportunities.
I also believe empathy and resilience are critical leadership qualities. Both my professional experiences and my personal journey as a working mom have taught me that staying adaptable, grounded, and curious is essential to growing as a leader, especially in a rapidly changing environment shaped by AI and innovation.
What is something about you that most people do not know?
Raising two sons, one with special needs, has turned me into a fierce advocate, expert negotiator, and firm believer in one rule: mind your motherhood! Balancing work and family has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying grounded in what matters most. It has reinforced the value of patience, perspective, and showing up consistently for the people who count on you most.
