Lt. Gen. David J. Julazadeh Appointed BENS Chief Operating Officer

BENS is proud to announce retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Dave Julazadeh is joining the organization as our new Chief Operating Officer, beginning April 22. This appointment marks another exciting step forward for BENS – providing us additional momentum at this pivotal moment in our nation’s defense and security.

A seasoned leader with more than 34 years of operational and strategic experience, General Julazadeh has commanded at the highest levels and led complex, mission-critical organizations across the joint force and NATO. His track record of execution, coupled with a collaborative leadership style, positions him to immediately strengthen BENS’s ability to deliver results across our campaigns and member engagements.

As COO, Dave will directly support the CEO by ensuring alignment between strategy and execution while driving performance across programs and partnerships and supporting expanded national-level engagements. He will also be highly engaged across BENS’s regions, working more directly with our members to shape priorities, deepen relationships, and amplify the organization’s work on-the-ground. For example, in May, Dave will lead a BENS delegation to Alaska, utilizing his background and understanding of global air defense to focus our conversations and support for security missions in the Arctic.

“Dave brings a rare combination of experience, approachability, and execution-focused leadership,” noted BENS President and CEO, retired U.S. Air Force General Timothy Ray. “He has exactly the background we need to help propel BENS forward and further translate your investment in BENS into even greater success for our Nation’s defense and security community.”

“I’m incredibly excited to join BENS at such a consequential time,” said General Julazadeh upon his appointment. “The challenges we face today demand stronger integration between the public and private sectors. BENS is uniquely positioned to help bridge that gap, and I look forward to working alongside its members to help turn that connection into meaningful outcomes.”

BENS welcomes Dave and the energy, experience, and leadership he brings to the organization.