Rita Flaherty

Rita Flaherty is the Vice President of Global Sales and Business Development for GE Aerospace Defense & Systems, a position she has held since April 2023.12 She is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in the defense and aerospace industry.2

Career Background

Prior to joining GE Aerospace, Flaherty had a long career at Lockheed Martin spanning more than 20 years.1 Her roles at Lockheed Martin included:

• Vice President of Strategy and Business Development (June 2019 - April 2023)
• Vice President of Business Development (May 2014 - June 2019)
• Director of Fire Control Business Development (January 2013 - May 2014)
• Director of Strategy and Business Development (December 2010 - January 2013)

At Lockheed Martin, she led growth strategies for various military products and programs, including HIMARS, GMLRS, Hellfire, Javelin, and targeting sensors for rotary wing aircraft.1

Military Service

Flaherty is a U.S. Army veteran.2 She graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1994 and served as a Military Intelligence officer in the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment and the 82nd Airborne Division.1 She is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Air Assault School and U.S. Army Airborne School.1

Education

In addition to her military education, Flaherty holds a Master of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering from Syracuse University.1

Current Role

In her position at GE Aerospace, Flaherty is responsible for developing and leading the growth strategy for GE Aerospace Military Systems.2 She manages and leads the Strategy, Sales Operations, Marketing, and International Sales teams.2 Her role involves showcasing GE Aerospace's global presence, supporting transatlantic military alliances, and promoting sustainable defense aviation.3