ThayerMahan Enhances Leadership Team for Future Growth
In light of increasing demand for autonomous maritime systems, ThayerMahan, a renowned innovator headquartered in Groton, Connecticut, has elevated its leadership team to further strengthen management capabilities. This strategic move comes as the company gears up for a significant growth phase in 2025, particularly in the defense, offshore energy, and commercial sectors.
Promotions to Key Leadership Positions
Effective immediately, ThayerMahan has promoted John Russ to Chief Operating Officer (COO) while Mike Varney steps into the role of President of ThayerMahan Ocean Technologies. These changes are pivotal as the company seeks to scale operations and enhance its ability to meet the burgeoning market needs.
John Russ, a former submarine squadron commander with extensive experience in maritime operations, transitions from his previous role as President of ThayerMahan Ocean Technologies. He is poised to oversee the expanding operational landscape, ensuring that advanced maritime solutions are delivered effectively to both defense and commercial clients. His deep maritime technology expertise and operational insights will be critical for ThayerMahan's upcoming phases of growth.
Mike Varney, who has a commendable background as a nuclear-powered submarine commander and a Bronze Star recipient, previously served as Vice President of Business Operations and Strategy. Varney's wealth of knowledge in industrial AI, product management, and strategic consulting—honed during his earlier ventures, including a successful AI integration business sold to GE Digital—positions him well to lead ThayerMahan Ocean Technologies amid rising market demands. He is expected to guide the development and deployment of progressive systems that tackle significant maritime challenges.
A Strategic Response to Market Dynamics
ThayerMahan's leadership restructuring comes at a time when the demand for autonomous maritime systems is surging. The defense and offshore energy sectors are increasingly in need of advanced monitoring technologies, necessitating ThayerMahan's commitment to expanding its operations and capabilities. CEO Mike Connor remarked, "ThayerMahan continues to grow. After our commercial sector led by Richard Hine experienced explosive growth last year, the manufacturing and government services sectors are ramping up this year. The new organization allows us to scale with leaders who understand our technology and our customers. I am confident that Mike Varney and John Russ will take us to the next level."
In line with its ambitious growth strategy for 2025, ThayerMahan is on the lookout for top-notch talent. The company aims to onboard more than 50 new employees, boosting its engineering, operations, and manufacturing teams, and enhancing its already skilled workforce. Alongside these efforts, ThayerMahan is set to double its manufacturing space, addressing the increasing demand for its autonomous maritime systems—a move that is anticipated to significantly elevate production capabilities for its advanced technology solutions including Outpost® and SeaPicket™.
About ThayerMahan
Established as a leader in maritime technology, ThayerMahan, Inc. specializes in delivering comprehensive autonomous marine solutions to government and commercial clients. These solutions encompass deployment, operations, data collection, and analytical services, employing sophisticated acoustic and electronic sensors mounted on various host platforms tailored for distinct mission requirements. With headquarters in Groton, CT and additional sites in Lowell and New Bedford, MA, and Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Arlington, VA, ThayerMahan remains committed to innovation and excellence in maritime technology. For more information about the company and its initiatives, visit
www.thayermahan.com or contact them directly at [email protected].