Guidehouse Expands Defense & Security Team with New Space Leaders

Guidehouse, a prominent global firm specializing in AI-driven professional services, has recently taken significant steps to strengthen its Defense & Security division. The firm has welcomed three distinguished leaders: David Hanson, Chris Kennedy, and Tim Ryan, who collectively bring an impressive depth of experience in operational and strategic roles within the space sector.

The expansion of this team comes at a time when the space domain is becoming increasingly interconnected and data-centric. Joe Shepherd, a Partner at Guidehouse and the designated leader for Navy and Space accounts, emphasized the necessity for partners who truly understand operations while leveraging advancing technologies. According to Shepherd, the new recruits possess critical mission insights and technical acumen to design solutions that align with national security priorities effectively.

Profiles of the New Leaders

David Hanson, Associate Director

David Hanson joins Guidehouse with more than 30 years of experience, which encompasses commanding roles in satellite operations, leading global ground station initiatives, and overseeing military installations. Notably, he served in high-ranking positions within both the United States Space Force (USSF) and the U.S. Air Force (USAF), retiring with the rank of Colonel. As the former Commander of Space Base Delta 1, which is the largest Delta in the USSF, he managed a workforce of approximately 3,600 personnel, blending operational wisdom with innovative strategy development for Guidehouse’s clientele.

Chris Kennedy, Associate Director

Another key addition is Chris Kennedy, also a retired Colonel, who brings over 23 years of military experience across the USSF and USAF. His distinguished service includes commanding Delta 6 at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado, where he was pivotal in directing joint space operations at a high level. His expertise in cyber operations and joint planning will aid in bridging the integration of cyber and space efforts across the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community, providing clients with advanced technical insights that address the unique challenges of modern defense strategies.

Tim Ryan, Associate Director

Completing the trio is Tim Ryan, a retired Lieutenant Colonel with extensive operational experience in Missile Warning, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), Satellite Communications (SATCOM), and Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) operations. Post-retirement, Ryan has held significant positions, including Associate Director for Joint and National Security Council matters on the USSF staff and Senior Resident Fellow for Spacepower Studies at the Mitchell Institute. His nearly three-decade-long career positions him uniquely to foster mission-oriented growth within Guidehouse's space strategy.

Advancing National Security Solutions

The integration of these industry veterans into Guidehouse’s Defense & Security team reinforces the firm's leadership in the national security domain. By combining deep operational knowledge with mission-focused technical solutions, the company aims to tackle the complexities associated with contemporary defense environments while ensuring impactful results for both commercial and government sectors.

In an era characterized by rapid technological evolution and increasing global interdependence, such enhancements to team expertise prove crucial. Guidehouse’s commitment to advancing its space strategy reflects not only its dedication to its clients but also its proactive approach in addressing the modern challenges faced by national security agencies.

About Guidehouse

As a global AI-led professional services firm, Guidehouse delivers a spectrum of advisory, technology, and managed services tailored for commercial entities and government agencies alike. The firm’s amalgamation of business technology expertise allows it to boost efficiency and resilience across various sectors, including healthcare, financial services, energy, infrastructure, and national security. With a robust team of approximately 18,000 professionals, Guidehouse is dedicated to fostering lasting impact and crafting a meaningful future across industries. For more information, visit guidehouse.com.