Lockheed Martin [LMT] yesterday said its board of directors unanimously voted to establish the new position of vice chairman, electing President and Chief Operating Officer Christopher Kubasik as a board member and vice chairman, effective immediately.
“Our board will benefit from Chris’ expertise and strategic vision, and his participation as vice chairman will further prepare him for his responsibilities to the board as CEO,” said Douglas McCorkindale, Lockheed Martin’s lead director.
Robert Stevens, Lockheed Martin chairman and CEO, said, “Adding Chris to our board of directors now is a natural next step in our leadership transition. This is a positive step for our customers, employees and stockholders.”
Kubasik will succeed Stevens as CEO on Jan. 1, 2013. Subject to election by stockholders and approval by the board, Stevens will remain chairman through January 2014.
“I am honored by our board’s vote of confidence and look forward to working with them in my new capacity to shape our future,” Kubasik said. “I’m proud to continue Lockheed Martin’s 100-year legacy of innovation and partnering with our customers to achieve their mission.”
The corporation announced the leadership transition in April. Kubasik has served as president and COO since January 2010, and he has served with Stevens in the executive office of the chairman since October 2011.