Northrop Grumman's CEO Wes Bush will be stepping down by Jan. 1, 2019, but will remain chairman through July 2019. Kathy Warden will take over as CEO and retain her position as president by January 1. Warden, who currently holds the positions of president and COO, will also serve as a member of the board, effective immediately.

“The board of directors has a strong focus on succession planning, and Kathy’s election as our incoming CEO and president enables us to ensure a seamless transition in this important leadership position for our company,” said Northrop Grumman lead independent director Don Felsinger. “The board appreciates the tremendous progress the company has made under Wes’ leadership and we look forward to building on this progress with Kathy as our next CEO.”

Warden, who joined Northrop Grumman (Chalet A17) in 2008, has served as the v-p and general manager of the company’s cybersecurity business, president of its former information systems sector, and president of its mission systems sector.

“I look forward to leading Northrop Grumman and driving performance for all out stakeholders; working with our employees, our customers, and our shareholders as we move our company forward,” Warden said.