Former deputy defense secretary named to lead NDIA

Former Deputy Secretary of Defense David Norquist will serve as the next president and CEO of the National Defense Industrial Association.

An Arlington-based national security industry association, the NDIA on Thursday announced Norquist’s new position, which he will start May 1.

Norquist has more than 30 years of experience working in national security and federal financial management. He served as deputy defense secretary from 2019 to 2021, overseeing day-to-day operations of the department. Prior to that, he served as under secretary of defense (comptroller) and chief financial officer for the department, during which he oversaw the Pentagon’s annual budget of more than $680 million. He has also served as the Department of Homeland Security’s CFO under the Bush administration. Additionally, he has worked as a staff member for the House Appropriations Committee and as a program analyst for the Army. Before rejoining the Defense Department as an under secretary in 2016, Norquist was a partner at certified public accounting firm Kearney & Co.

“David is capable from day one to continue enhancing the industry-government relationship that is essential to supporting the warfighter and the taxpayer,” NDIA Chair and retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Arnold Punaro said. “He will also continue NDIA’s strong tradition of nonpartisan leadership.”

Norquist’s selection came following a search by management consulting firm Russell Reynolds Associates.

“It is an honor to be selected to serve as president and CEO of NDIA,” Norquist said. “As a nation, one of our core strategic advantages is the innovative character of our defense industrial base. Our long-term national security depends on government effectively capitalizing on that strength, and I look forward to assisting in that effort.”

NDIA Executive Vice President James Boozer will serve as acting president and CEO until Norquist takes over in May.