Jason Goodfriend is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in both government and private sectors, distinguished by his innovative leadership and execution-focused approach. With a comprehensive background that spans various leadership roles in businesses of all sizes and ownership models (public, private, private equity backed), including a significant position leading a global defense organization valued at over $2 billion, Jason has established himself as a prominent figure in the defense and security landscape.
As the Interim Group President and Chief Operating Officer of CAE Defense & Security, Jason played a crucial role in overseeing a global workforce of more than 6,000 employees while managing and serving on CAE USA’s Special Security Agreement Board of Directors. Reporting directly to the Chairman of the CAE USA Board of Directors, he provided critical financial, operational, and legislative insights, ensuring the strategic alignment of initiatives with corporate objectives. His leadership resulted in exceeding quarterly profit targets for the first time in over 12 quarters, demonstrating his ability to drive organizational performance and profitability.
Throughout his career, Jason has consistently focused on operational excellence and implementation of strategic objectives. As Chief Operating Officer of CAE Defense & Security, he successfully restructured and integrated various business units, resulting in significant cost reductions and optimized profit generation. His focus on operational excellence drove profit and loss transition and execution planning for four new billion-dollar program awards including oversight of critical transition tasks and key governance ensuring execution readiness on transformational programs.
Before his tenure at CAE, Jason served as the General Manager of multiple Akima Operating Companies, where he managed over 40 decentralized programs globally with an annual revenue exceeding $200 million and drove competitive market growth and diversification. His leadership resulted in the successful reorganization and integration of these companies into a cohesive organization focused on delivering comprehensive classified IT, defense, and Fed-Civ related support solutions to federal government clients.
Jason’s career also includes key positions at Illuminate Mission Solutions and Cyberspace Solutions, where he led significant growth and acquisition integration efforts, propelling revenues from $6.5 million to over $100 million in just five years. His ability to guide companies through complex transitions including private equity backed acquisitions and focus on innovative technology integration has been a hallmark of his career.
Jason’s foundational experience began with his service as a Military Intelligence Officer in the United States Army, where he executed numerous combat missions and earned several commendations while serving in Iraq, including the U.S. Army Bronze Star. His military background has instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, servant leadership and strategic thinking, which he has carried into his civilian roles.
Academically, Jason holds a Bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and has completed executive training programs at The Wharton School. He is also certified in project management, proposal management, Agile methodologies and ISO standards, reflecting his commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in organizational governance.
With an active Top Secret security clearance, Jason’s unique blend of operational acumen, strategic insight, and a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams makes him an invaluable asset in the defense sector. His leadership philosophy centers around building consensus and maximizing team effectiveness, positioning organizations for sustainable growth and success in a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape.
- Character: Jason Goodfriend exemplifies integrity and servant leadership, rooted in his military service, which informs his leadership approach and commitment to ethical practices in the defense industry.
- Knowledge: With over 20 years of experience in government and private sectors, Jason possesses extensive expertise in classified defense and security, as well as in managing complex organizations and driving operational excellence.
- Strategic: Jason’s strategic vision has resulted in significant business growth and diversification, highlighted by the successful development of multi-billion dollar new business pipelines and exceeding profit targets.
- Communication: He is adept at fostering collaboration and building consensus among cross-functional teams, ensuring that initiatives align with organizational goals and drive sustained success.
