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One of Australia’s largest defence businesses has today revealed it has appointed its first female chief executive, effective March 2018.
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BAE Systems Australia has announced one of the Australian defence industry's most prominent CEOs, Glynn Phillips, will step down from the role with Gabrielle Costigan to replace him.
Costigan will commence work with the company this October and will assume the role of CEO by March 2018 after a global transition program. Most recently, Costigan was CEO Asia, Linfox International Group, a major international logistics and supply chain group.
She also has logistics experience in leading roles in the aviation industry and in the Australian and US military.
BAE Systems Australia non-executive chairman Dr Ian Watt said the company is excited by Costigan's appointment to the Australian CEO role.
"Gabby has a wealth of experience gained from leadership roles in the corporate logistics and aviation sectors, and this is complemented by her deep experience in the military, including a 20-year career with the Australian Defence Force," Dr Watt said.
"BAE Systems has been in Australia for over 60 years and the country continues to be a key growth market for the group. Gabby is ideally suited to lead BAE Systems Australia as we continue to strengthen our contribution to protecting the nation, while playing a leading role in supporting Australia’s transition to a high technology economy."
Costigan's experience in the private sector was a strong drawcard for her appointment to the role, according to Dr Watt.
"Gabby will bring fresh insight and a proven track record in the private sector where she has successfully cemented long-term relationships with a diverse range of customers to deliver growth for shareholders," said Dr Watt.
"As the company seeks to build upon its success in delivering technology-led solutions to the Australian government across air, land, sea and electronic domains, Gabby’s understanding of the Australian Defence Force’s needs and her breadth of relationships in the sector, positions BAE Systems Australia well for success.
"I am also delighted that in the appointment of Gabby to the role of chief executive officer, BAE Systems Australia will be appointing its first female CEO."
Dr Watt also complimented Phillips on his contribution to the Australian business since his appointment to the role of CEO in 2015.
"Glynn has made a very significant contribution to the company’s performance in Australia having driven a strategy that has delivered the defence and security solutions the nation needs today, while working with the Australian government to ensure we are well positioned to help it deliver the sovereign capability it will need over the decades to come," Dr Watt said.
"Glynn leaves a strong legacy for Gabby to build on."
