Black History Month Spotlight: SAIC CEO Toni Townes-Whitley

In celebration of Black History Month, we shine a spotlight on Toni Townes-Whitley, the CEO of Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), a leading technology integrator based in Reston, Virginia. Townes-Whitley, who assumed the role in October 2023, is one of only two Black women currently leading Fortune 500 companies, alongside TIAA's Thasunda Brown Duckett. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the tech industry and a testament to her exceptional leadership and accomplishments.



Townes-Whitley's journey to the helm of SAIC is a testament to her diverse background and experiences. Born to a retired 3-star Army general, she holds a bachelor's degree in public policy and economics from Princeton University's School of Public & International Affairs. She has also completed certifications from Wharton Executive Education, New York University, and the Performance Management Institute. Her career spans various roles in government, regulated industries, and technology, including stints at Microsoft, CGI Federal, and Unisys.

Under Townes-Whitley's leadership, SAIC has undergone a strategic transformation, focusing on fine-tuning and employee upskilling rather than wholesale change. She has identified four key areas for pivoting: portfolio, go-to-market strategy, culture, and brand. By sequencing these changes, Townes-Whitley has successfully driven growth and innovation at SAIC.



One of Townes-Whitley's primary initiatives has been to diversify SAIC's portfolio and market strategy. She has expanded the company's offerings to include engineering, digital, AI, and mission support services, catering to defense, space, intelligence, and civilian customers. This diversification has enabled SAIC to tap into multiple markets and reduce reliance on a single sector.

Townes-Whitley's focus on culture and employee upskilling has also contributed significantly to SAIC's success. She has implemented various training programs, including "Upskill SAIC" and the "Leadership Development Program," to help employees stay current with the latest technologies and industry trends. Additionally, she has prioritized Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, establishing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and partnering with organizations like Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Black Girls Code to support diversity in STEM fields.



Townes-Whitley's leadership style, which emphasizes a growth mindset, empathy, and a strong sense of mission and impact, has been instrumental in guiding SAIC's transformation. Her ability to apply a macro and microeconomic perspective, honed during her time at Microsoft, has enabled her to drive strategic change while maintaining a focus on the company's core strengths.

In conclusion, Toni Townes-Whitley's appointment as CEO of SAIC is a significant milestone in the tech industry and a testament to her exceptional leadership and accomplishments. Her focus on culture, employee upskilling, and strategic transformation has driven growth and innovation at SAIC, solidifying the company's competitive position in the market. As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor Townes-Whitley's contributions and the positive impact she continues to make on the tech industry and beyond.