An artistic rendering of GPS satellites in orbit. Photo Credit: NOAA

David Grossman, the executive director of the GPS Innovation Alliance (GPSIA) is leaving the organization after leading GPSIA for three and a half years. The organization announced Nov. 12 that Alex Damato, lead policy advisor at Wilkinson, Barker & Knauer LLP will serve as acting executive director. 

GPSIA’s membership tripled since Grossman joined the association in May 2018. The organization has added companies including L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and BAE Systems over the past year. During Grossman’s tenure, GPSIA also supported the creation of a bipartisan, congressional GPS caucus focused on keeping GPS resilient and reliable. 

“In his time leading the association, David has substantially elevated the GPS industry’s presence in Washington and helped position GPSIA as the go-to voice for policymakers on GPS issues,” commented Jim Kirkland, GPSIA president. 

Damato brings a background in telecommunications law and policy issues to the role. He previously served as legislative director to Rep. Doris Matsui, D-Calif., and telecom policy aide to Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.V.