BAE Systems Appoints Caitlin Hayden SVP of Communications; Tom Arseneault Quoted

Caitlin Hayden, formerly of the Aerospace Industries Association, has been named senior vice president of communications at BAE Systems, the company announced on Tuesday. 

Hayden will lead the company’s external and internal communications activities in support of key business campaigns, community investment and employee engagement. She will report directly to Tom Arseneault, president and chief operating officer of BAE Systems and a former Wash100 winner. 

“With her national security expertise and extensive communications experience, Caitlin is well-positioned to drive the global narrative around our broad portfolio of innovative products and services,” said Arseneault. “Caitlin will be a key voice on our senior leadership team as we support our aerospace and defense customers around the world.”

Hayden has served as vice president of communications for the Aerospace Industries Association, leading the organization’s outreach and communications functions, working with AIA member companies, including BAE Systems, to tell the aerospace and defense industry’s story in the U.S. and globally. 

In addition, she has worked in the federal government for over 15 years. She served as a Special Assistant to President Barack Obama, Senior Director for Strategic Communications and Press, and spokesperson for the National Security Council. 

Prior to her work at the White House, Hayden served with the Department of State in policy and communications assignments that spanned embassies and offices in Washington, D.C., Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Kingdom.