[Via Satellite 03-23-2016] Lockheed Martin has named veteran space industry executive Kay Sears as vice president of strategy and business development for the corporation’s space systems business area, effective April 4, 2016. In her new role, Sears will be responsible for leading business growth through a comprehensive strategy to develop new markets and strengthen partnerships with existing customers. She will also lead strategic planning and advanced technology concepts.

Sears joins Lockheed Martin after a 10-year career at Intelsat, of which she spent eight years as president of Intelsat General, the operator’s government-focused business division. Intelsat recently promoted Skot Butler to become Intelsat General’s new president.

Before joining Intelsat, Sears helped launch government services business units at both G2 Satellite Solutions and Verestar. In 2009, she was appointed to the President’s National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee to provide information, technical expertise, advice and guidance regarding issues that may affect national security telecommunications capabilities. She also serves on the board of the Space Foundation.