Reston, Va. – October 07, 2026 -- General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) announced that its board has elected company president Danny Deep as chief executive officer, effective January 1, 2027, succeeding Phebe Novakovic after 13 years in the role.
Novakovic transitions to executive chairman after more than a decade as CEO
Novakovic, who has served as CEO since 2013, will move to the role of executive chairman of General Dynamics, remaining engaged with the company's leadership. The board's independent lead director, Laura J. Schumacher, credited Novakovic with setting a clear strategic vision and building a capable leadership team during her tenure.
Incoming CEO brings 25 years of internal operating experience
Deep has spent 25 years at General Dynamics, rising through roles of increasing responsibility before being named company president in 2025. His prior positions include executive vice president of Global Operations, executive vice president of Combat Systems, and president of Land Systems.
"I am profoundly honored to be selected as the next CEO of General Dynamics," Deep said, adding that he is thankful for the board's confidence following his partnership with Novakovic.
Leadership change comes as General Dynamics reported $52.6 billion in 2025 revenue
General Dynamics, headquartered in Reston, Virginia, employs more than 120,000 people worldwide across business aviation, ship construction and repair, land combat vehicles, weapon systems, munitions, and technology products and services. The CEO transition takes effect January 1, 2027.