Laura Hooks, a nearly two-decade veteran of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), has been appointed to succeed William Patterson as vice president and general manager of the ground systems line of business within the company’s mission systems unit.
Patterson, who has been with General Dynamics for more than 19 years, will assist in Hooks’ leadership transition before he officially retires in June, the company said Tuesday.
Chris Brady, president of General Dynamics Mission Systems and a 2022 Wash100 Award recipient, said Patterson helped the company develop new strategies to address the Army’s research, development and procurement requirements.
In her new role, Hooks will be responsible for leading the administration and integration of mission-critical networks, training and simulation platforms and command and control systems for military customers.
She previously served as VP of the strategic systems business area within the company’s maritime and strategic systems line of business.
“Laura is a brilliant and proven executive, able to deeply understand complex business and technical issues, and to create an environment of innovation and business growth,” Brady said.
