Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced Brigadier-General (ret.) Guy Barlev as its new CEO on Tuesday, with the decision now pending government approval.
Barlev has served as IAI's executive vice-president since 2020 and has been in charge of the company's Systems Missiles & Space Group division.
“We are proud to announce the conclusion of a structured, in-depth, and thorough process by the search committee, tasked with selecting a CEO for IAI," said Boaz Levy, IAI Chairman of the Board and former CEO of the company.
“Guy has successfully managed the Systems Missiles & Space Group for approximately six years. He has deep familiarity with both the international and local defense markets, as well as the Company’s customers’ requirements," he added.
The decision will have to be approved by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Regional Development Minister Dudi Amsalem, who is also the head of the Government Companies Authority.
From IDF Brigadier-General to IAI's CEO
Barlev served in different positions in the IDF until 2015, with his last position being deputy commander of the Judea and Samaria Division.
He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and a Master’s degree in Social Sciences with a focus on Security Studies from the National Security College at the University of Haifa.
Additionally, he graduated from the US Army Command and General Staff College.
“I would like to thank IAI’s Board of Directors for their trust and for selecting me as CEO. It is a great privilege to lead a company that serves as a national and strategic asset for the State of Israel," said Barlev.
"IAI of today is very different from the IAI that I joined about a decade ago. The company has undergone a business transformation in recent years and achieved unprecedented records. I look forward to the journey ahead, in fulfilling the company’s potential and strengthening our partnerships in both existing and new markets,” he added.