Richard Baldridge is the former CEO of Viasat, a company he joined back in 1999. He has had a long career in business and has held various high-ranking positions over the years, including President and Chief Operating Officer before becoming...

Richard Baldridge is the former CEO of Viasat, a company he joined back in 1999. He has had a long career in business and has held various high-ranking positions over the years, including President and Chief Operating Officer before becoming CEO in November 2020. His career path shows a strong foundation in financial operations, having worked previously at companies like Raytheon and General Dynamics. Baldridge possesses a Bachelor's degree from the University of California, San Diego, and has been instrumental in shaping Viasat’s strategy, particularly during a time when the company focused heavily on expanding its satellite communications. Interestingly, he transitioned to being Vice Chairman in July 2022 and retired from active leadership in June 2023, leaving a significant mark on the technology and aerospace sectors. His compensation has varied substantially, with a total package nearing $12.2 million in 2021. Baldridge's approach reflects a commitment to aligning executive performance with company goals, demonstrating a preference for performance-based incentives over straight salary increases. He is also noted for another unusual fact: despite his executive roles, he believes in a transparent and ethical approach to corporate governance.