Marillyn A. Hewson served as the CEO of Lockheed Martin, one of the world’s largest aerospace and defense companies, from January 2013 until June 2020. With a career that spans over 35 years at Lockheed Martin, she climbed the ranks...

Marillyn A. Hewson served as the CEO of Lockheed Martin, one of the world’s largest aerospace and defense companies, from January 2013 until June 2020. With a career that spans over 35 years at Lockheed Martin, she climbed the ranks through various roles, showcasing her expertise in business operations and strategy. In 2020, her total compensation hit an eye-popping $264 million, primarily driven by performance-based bonuses and vested stock awards, highlighting a strong link between her pay and the company’s success. During her leadership, Lockheed Martin reported record sales of $53.8 billion in 2018 and expanded its international business significantly, tapping into global markets. Also, she emphasized the importance of talent management and diversity across the organization, making the company a leader in ethical conduct and corporate governance. Hewson has been recognized for her efforts in managing significant corporate risks and promoting sustainability within the organization. Even after stepping down as CEO in 2020, she continued as a strategic advisor, indicating her ongoing influence in the aerospace and defense sector. Marillyn holds a Bachelor’s and an MBA from the University of Alabama, which laid the foundation for her impressive business acumen. Her journey is an interesting case study in how effective leadership and strategic planning can lead to unparalleled company growth and innovation.