General Dynamics names president Danny Deep as next CEO

The board of directors of General Dynamics has elected company president Danny Deep to become chief executive officer, effective January 1, 2027. Deep will take over the role from Phebe Novakovic, who has served as CEO since 2013 and will transition to executive chairman.

Deep stated regarding the appointment: "I am profoundly honored to be selected as the next CEO of General Dynamics and humbled and deeply thankful for the board’s confidence." He also highlighted his collaboration with current leadership: "Phebe has been an extraordinary leader for General Dynamics, and I am grateful for the close partnership we’ve shared and the opportunity to continue working together in the future."

Current CEO Phebe Novakovic endorsed Deep, noting: "Danny is a highly skilled executive with rich operating experience. It has been a pleasure working closely with him and I am certain he will be an outstanding CEO." She added: "I very much look forward to our continuing collaboration."

Independent lead director Laura J. Schumacher expressed gratitude for Novakovic on behalf of the board, stating: "On behalf of the board, we thank Phebe for her outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to General Dynamics." Schumacher noted: "We look forward to her continuing role with the company and to working together with Danny... We have every confidence that he will continue the outstanding leadership and legacy that Phebe has exemplified."

The governance transition maintains continuity at the top of General Dynamics by keeping the long-serving chief executive involved as executive chairman while elevating an internal executive. This structure ensures that operating experience remains central to executive leadership without an immediate departure of existing top personnel.