BigBear.ai has appointed Jo Ann Bjornson as Chief Human Resources Officer and Alex Thompson as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer to strengthen leadership as the company accelerates growth in 2026.
BigBear.ai (NYSE: BBAI), a specialized defense technology company providing mission-ready AI for national security and travel & trade customers, has announced two key executive appointments to its leadership team.
Jo Ann Bjornson joins as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). She brings more than 25 years of experience in human resources leadership across federal contracting and commercial markets. Recognized as one of WashingtonExec’s “HR Executives to Watch” since 2022, Bjornson has held senior HR roles at V2X, SAIC, and Leidos, and has served as Chair of the Washington HRExec Council.
Alex Thompson joins as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer (CCAO). With 25 years of experience, he will lead brand strategy, communications, government affairs, and marketing. Thompson previously served as President of Global Practices & Sectors at the independent strategic communications firm Edelman and as Chief Communications Officer for Thomson Reuters.
"As we accelerate in 2026, having the right leadership in place is essential," said Kevin McAleenan, CEO of BigBear.ai. "Our customers and global partners need us to move fast, operate with integrity, and deliver real capability in the most demanding environments. Jo Ann and Alex bring proven experience in public and private companies and will help us do that. I am proud to welcome them both to the team."
These strategic appointments reinforce BigBear.ai’s commitment to building a strong executive team capable of supporting rapid growth, fostering innovation, and maintaining its position as a trusted partner in highly complex, mission-based operating environments.
About BigBear.ai
BigBear.ai is a specialized defense technology company, developing and deploying mission-ready AI solutions and services. Customers and partners rely on BigBear.ai’s artificial intelligence and predictive analytics capabilities in highly complex, distributed, mission-based operating environments. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, BigBear.ai is a public company traded on the NYSE under the symbol BBAI.
