Parry Labs has appointed Don Claussen as chief executive officer, marking the next phase of the defense technology company’s leadership evolution as it continues to scale its operations and expand its impact across the defense sector.
Founder John “JD” Parkes will transition to the role of executive chairman while remaining full-time with the company. In his new position, Parkes will focus on strategic growth initiatives, investor relationships, and guiding the company’s long-term direction.
Claussen brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience across defense and technology organizations. His background includes senior leadership roles at L3Harris and Viasat, as well as serving as CEO of ST Engineering iDirect, a global communications technology company serving commercial and U.S. government customers. A U.S. Army veteran, Claussen also deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq on tactical communications programs and has extensive experience working directly on deployed C4ISR systems.
As CEO, Claussen will oversee the company’s day-to-day operations, including execution, organizational alignment, and the continued development of Parry Labs’ operating model across its locations in Virginia, Alabama, Maryland, Texas, and Iowa.
Parry Labs develops technologies focused on open architecture, edge computing, command and control systems, and integrated defense capabilities designed to support warfighters and modern military operations.
KEY QUOTES:
“For the past decade, as a founder and CEO, I have been focused on building a defense technology company to solve our nation’s security challenges. Now more than ever it is paramount to build mission outcomes at speed and scale. As we, Parry, have continued to grow, I am happy to bring a new CEO and leader that will help us do that. The right leader for Parry will operate with humility, is driven by the mission, and has the proven experience to lead defense technology organizations to tremendous levels. I am confident Don is the right leader for Parry Labs.
His proven ability to lead technology driven organizations through massive growth, emerging technologies changes, and drive long term value is clear. I look forward to diving in as executive chairman and helping Don maximize the impact Parry Labs can have for our country.”
John “JD” Parkes, Executive Chairman, Parry Labs
“I came to Parry because I believe the mission needs Parry Labs’ technology. As the DoW shifts its priorities, I am excited to help position Parry within this evolving opportunity space. The defense industry needs exactly these capabilities right now: open architecture, edge compute, C2, and integrated systems with the warfighter at the center.
My job is to help scale the company while preserving the speed, technical excellence, and mission focus that made Parry successful in the first place. Having served in uniform and worked directly with defense systems in the field, I understand how important it is to deliver capability that works when and where it matters.
I am honored to join JD, the Board, the leadership team, and the entire Parry organization as we continue expanding the impact Parry can have for our customers and the warfighter.”
Don Claussen, Chief Executive Officer, Parry Labs
