Laurell Aiton
Chief Administrative Officer, SMX
Laurell Aiton recently led the implementation of the National Contract Management Association Contract Management Standard.
This initiative has been instrumental in upskilling SMX’s contracts workforce, strengthening professional development, and continuing the company’s evolution from a transactional contracts function to a more strategic business partner.
As a result, Aiton’s team is better positioned to provide higher-value support to customers and the business.
“I couldn’t be prouder of what the SMX Contracts team has accomplished,” Aiton said. “They tackled every obstacle in a demanding environment with integrity, creativity, and a level of teamwork that is truly inspiring. They are the definition of ‘outcome assured,’ and I am honored to work alongside them.”
Aiton and her team also help government customers operate more efficiently by identifying the most effective acquisition pathways for their needs, including leveraging Other Transaction Authorities and existing OTA consortia. “By helping customers access these flexible contracting vehicles, we can accelerate procurement timelines, foster innovation, and reduce administrative burden,” she said.
Why Watch
In 2026, Aiton and her team are focused on helping customers transition from cost-type tasking to more appropriate fixed-price contract structures that improve efficiency and deliver greater value. Internally, they are accelerating the adoption of AI across business processes to streamline operations, enhance decision making, and create meaningful efficiencies for customers and the organization.
“As CAO, Laurell is responsible for nearly every critical enterprise support function, from security and facilities, to our people and culture. We cannot succeed or grow without her leadership — she’s a trusted and valued member of the executive team,” said Peter LaMontagne, SMX CEO.
Fun fact: Outside of work, Aiton has a passion for cake decorating. She discovered it after taking a class and quickly became hooked. One of her favorite accomplishments was learning how to handcraft buttercream roses, a skill that challenged her creativity and gave her a real sense of accomplishment, she said.
