Leidos Appoints AI Visionary Ted Tanner as Chief Technology Officer

Leidos, a prominent federal contractor, has announced the appointment of Theodore “Ted” Tanner Jr. as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO), effective January 5, 2026. Tanner, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in artificial intelligence and deep technology, will lead Leidos’ technological innovation and strategy, aiming to accelerate the company’s deployment of AI, mission-critical software, and advanced solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Ted Tanner, formerly of BigBear.ai, brings a wealth of AI and machine learning expertise to Leidos.
• His appointment aligns with Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 growth strategy, emphasizing AI-driven outcomes.
• Tanner succeeds Jim Carlini, who will transition to a senior advisor role.

A New Era of AI Leadership

Ted Tanner’s arrival at Leidos marks a significant step in the company’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence. Tanner’s background includes a pivotal role as Chief Technology and Strategy Officer at BigBear.ai, where he was instrumental in developing AI and machine learning capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense and various intelligence and civilian agencies. His expertise is expected to drive advancements across Leidos’ key focus areas, including space and maritime, digital modernization, cyber, managed health services, mission software, and energy infrastructure.

Proven Track Record and Vision

Leidos CEO Tom Bell lauded Tanner as a "high-impact leader who pairs entrepreneurial creativity with execution discipline to solve tough deep-technology challenges." Tanner’s career also includes significant tenures at tech giants like Apple and Microsoft, as well as IBM Watson Health. He is a co-founder of two successful startups, PokitDok and Belief Networks, and holds 18 U.S. patents in AI, machine learning, and related technologies. Tanner expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating his goal to "propel this iconic powerhouse into an agentic AI leader, empowering developers to build autonomous systems that orchestrate critical missions."

Strategic Alignment and Transition

Tanner’s appointment directly supports Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 growth strategy, which heavily relies on AI to achieve its objectives. He will succeed Jim Carlini, who has served as CTO since 2019. Carlini will remain with the company as a senior advisor to CEO Tom Bell, focusing on national security matters, ensuring a smooth transition and continued strategic guidance.

About Leidos

Leidos is a global leader in the industry and technology sectors, providing innovative digital and mission solutions to government and commercial clients. With approximately 47,000 employees worldwide, the company reported revenues of around $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ending January 3, 2025. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Leidos is dedicated to making the world safer, healthier, and more efficient through its advanced technological capabilities.

Sources

• Leidos names AI chief technology officer, Virginia Business.
• Leidos taps leading AI tech executive Ted Tanner as chief technology officer, PR Newswire.

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