ADS Announces New Board Member and Executive Team Structure
New organizational changes aim to increase collaboration, support long-term growth.
ADS, a prominent Federal Contractor and leading military equipment provider, is pleased to share significant executive leadership changes. These changes are expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration and support the organization’s long-term growth vision.
In an important development, John Dunn, who has served as the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is set to join the ADS Board of Directors in mid-2025. His appointment marks a significant milestone, as he will be the first employee of ADS, aside from Founder and Chairman Luke Hillier, to hold a board position.
ADS CEO Ryan Angold emphasized the strategic importance of this transition, stating, "John is a true leader who will remain engaged in key aspects of our business while providing us with his trusted strategic guidance and oversight. He will continue to be a tremendous resource to all of us at ADS." The leadership changes reflect the company’s commitment to fostering internal talent and promoting capabilities within its executive team.
John Dunn has been an integral part of ADS since 2010 and was appointed COO/CFO in 2022. As Dunn transitions to the Board, additional changes will take place among current ADS employees who will step up to new roles with increased responsibilities. This includes Nick Casassa, who will move from Vice President of Finance to the role of Chief Financial Officer, and Jeff Gordon, transitioning from Vice President of Operations to Executive Vice President of Operations. Furthermore, the expansive responsibilities of Human Resources, IT, and Business Analytics, which Dunn previously oversaw, will now fall under the leadership of Chief Growth Officer Julie Cooke, alongside her existing responsibilities in Communications, Talent Acquisition, Development, and Marketing.
Nick Casassa began his journey with ADS as Assistant Controller in 2018 and has since demonstrated his capabilities, achieving his current position in 2022 after being named Controller in 2019. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting, a minor in Computer Information Systems, and a Master of Science in Accounting from James Madison University, and he is also a licensed CPA.
Jeff Gordon joined ADS in 2018, taking on the role of Purchasing and Component Planning Manager before advancing to his current role. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Movement Sciences and Sports Management, complemented by a Minor in Business Administration from Old Dominion University.
Ryan Angold remarked, "Nick, Jeff, and Julie embody the core values of ADS both through their individual contributions to the organization and the momentum with which they have led their respective teams. I'm excited to watch them rise to these new challenges." This sentiment underscores the firm's confidence in its internal talent and their ability to drive the company forward.
About ADS
With over 25 years of worldwide operations, ADS serves as a trusted partner for the Department of Defense, Federal Agencies, and First Responders. The company excels in researching, vetting, and providing innovative and cost-effective equipment solutions through more than 80 procurement channels, ensuring that warfighters and first responders have the essential tools they need to carry out their missions effectively and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the recent changes in ADS's executive team?
The changes in ADS's executive team are aimed at enhancing collaboration and ensuring long-term growth, aligning with the company's strategic vision.
Who will be joining the ADS Board of Directors?
John Dunn, the current Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, will be joining the ADS Board of Directors in mid-2025, marking a significant change in the board's composition.
What roles are other executives stepping into?
Nick Casassa will become Chief Financial Officer, Jeff Gordon will transition to Executive Vice President of Operations, and Julie Cooke will expand her responsibilities as Chief Growth Officer.
What is the background of Nick Casassa?
Nick Casassa has been with ADS since 2018, progressing from Assistant Controller to CFO, and holds a Master of Science in Accounting with licensure as a CPA.
How long has ADS been operating?
ADS has been operating for over 25 years, providing essential products and services to military and federal agencies.
