Alexandria-based SPA names chief legal officer

Systems Planning & Analysis, an Alexandria-based government contractor specializing in data and analytics for national security, announced Wednesday that Doug Coleman is its new chief legal officer.

Before joining SPA, Coleman was regional general counsel for Swiss multinational technology corporation ABB Group’s motion business, leading legal strategy and operations in North, South and Central Americas and the Caribbean. He also has held senior roles at Reliable Robotics, Aerion, Spirit AeroSystems, BAE Systems and Curtiss-Wright. He began his career as a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice’s civil division.

“Doug brings deep expertise in legal strategy and governance that will support SPA’s continued growth and mission delivery,” CEO Rich Sawchak said in a statement. “His leadership strengthens our executive team.”

SPA announced in September 2025 it plans to invest $46.9 million to expand its headquarters in Alexandria and increase its presence in Fairfax County, creating more than 1,200 jobs in the two locations.

Founded in 1972, the company provides data and analytics services designed to address national security challenges facing the United States and its allies. Its expansion will nearly double the company’s Alexandria-based workforce of 600 over the next five years, creating nearly 500 jobs in the city.

In November 2025, SPA announced its acquisition of Group W, a Vienna-based data science and defense analytics and defense firm. Financial terms were not disclosed.