Following its leadership succession plan previously announced in September, technical professional services firm Jacobs has confirmed Bob Pragada has been named Chief Executive Officer.

He is expected to join the Company’s Board of Directors upon certification of the results of its Annual Meeting.

Jacobs says Pragada brings more than 30 years of global business leadership and military experience to Jacobs, including 17 years with the company and nine years as a Civil Engineer Corps and Seabees Officer with the US Navy. Having served as a facilities director at Camp David during the Clinton administration, Pragada is the second Indian American to graduate from the United States Naval Academy and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Subsequently, he is the first Indian American, veteran and person of colour appointed as CEO of Jacobs.

“It is an exciting time for Jacobs,” said Pragada. “Concentrating our strategy accelerators around climate response, data solutions, and consulting and advisory services, we’re anticipating the global trends most important to our clients to develop differentiated, data-enabled solutions that meet their needs. I am honoured to take on the role of CEO and advance the compelling work underway to further diversify our capabilities and offerings, increasing opportunities and value for our people, our clients and our shareholders alike.”

(Picture – Jacobs)