US defence giant Lockheed Martin has lined up Kevin O’Connor as its next general counsel, replacing Maryanne Lavan who is set to retire in the new year.

O’Connor joins from refrigeration and air conditioning business Carrier, where he was chief legal officer overseeing its global legal and compliance matters, as well as government and regulatory affairs. He will take on a similar remit at Lockheed Martin when he takes up the role on 13 January.

Bethesda, Maryland-based Lockheed Martin makes aircraft including commercial and fighter jets, as well as weapons systems, space technology and maritime combat equipment.

Jim Taiclet, chairman, president and CEO of Lockheed Martin, said: “Kevin is a proven leader who brings insight, expertise and a shared commitment to our 21st Century Security vision. I look forward to working with him as we continue to prioritise strong governance and delivering more cutting-edge capabilities faster and more affordably to the United States and our allies.”

O’Connor spent five years at Carrier, having previously been CLO at Steven Cohen’s hedge fund Point72. He also had an in-house spell at United Technologies as vice president of global ethics and compliance, and worked in the US Department of Justice for seven years, including as an associate attorney general and as the US Attorney for Connecticut. In addition, he had a two-year spell at the US Securities and Exchange Commission as a senior counsel.

His private practice career has spanned firms including Bracewell and Day Berry & Howard (both as a partner) and Cahill Gordon & Reindel (as an associate).  

He said: “It is an honour to join Lockheed Martin at such an exciting time in its history, when national security solutions are of paramount importance. The opportunity to work with such an incredibly talented team while continuing to ensure the highest standards in governance and compliance is truly exciting. I look forward to working with the leadership team to help advance Lockheed Martin’s critical mission in this dynamic environment.”

Lavan, meantime, is exiting the company after more than three decades. She will remain on as a strategic advisor during the first quarter of 2025 to ensure a smooth transition.

Taiclet added: “Over her exceptional 34-year career at Lockheed Martin, Maryanne has made a mark on our company through her leadership, guidance and integrity. I appreciate her many years of service and wish her all the best in her next chapter.”