Do you know what it takes to drive innovation and deliver cutting-edge capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense?
Get to know Ms. Aditi Kumar, the Deputy Director of the Defense Innovation Unit for the U.S. Department of Defense
Aditi Kumar is a trailblazer who revolutionizes how the military meets its warfighter requirements. Particularly, she spearheads the Defense Innovation Unit’s collaboration with the Military Departments, Joint Staff, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense to ensure that our warfighters have the tools they need to succeed on the battlefield.
Ms. Kumar’s expertise goes beyond just policy and interagency partnerships. She’s a seasoned leader with a knack for navigating legislative and international affairs. However, what’s next for this seasoned leader?
Keep reading to know the exciting endeavors that lie ahead for Aditi Kumar.
Catch Aditi Kumar at the Potomac Officers Club’s 10th Annual Defense R&D Summit
Aditi Kumar is an expert in driving innovation at a Department-wide level, and her unique blend of knowledge in commercial technology and national security is crucial to DIU’s mission.
Aditi Kumar and other esteemed speakers like Heidi Shyu, Jay Dryer, and John Cushing on January 31, 2024, will be discussing the latest advancements in cutting-edge technology for the U.S. military. The event will take place at Tysons Corner, Virginia.
Register now!
Aditi Kumar: Her career journey
Aditi Kumar began her professional journey as an Analyst at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Following this, she joined the Wharton Small Business Development Center as a Consultant in the Greater Philadelphia Area.
Thereafter, Ms. Kumar’s career took her to the World Economic Forum in New York City, where she served as a Project Manager. In this role, she led the Forum’s Role of Financial Services in Society initiative.
She managed a steering committee and fostered discussions on responsible financial innovation. She also supported the Forum’s financial services agenda at the Annual Meeting 2014 in Davos.
After her time at the World Economic Forum, she joined Oliver Wyman as a Consultant, and eventually, as an Engagement Manager. Her career took a new turn as she became the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs Executive Director at the Harvard Kennedy School.
Ms. Kumar transitioned to a role in the public sector, joining the United States Department of Defense as a Senior Advisor for Industrial Policy. She then took on the position of Senior Advisor for Acquisition & Sustainment for nearly two years in Washington, D.C.
Presently, Aditi Kumar is the Deputy Director of the Defense Innovation Unit within the U.S. Department of Defense. In this role, she continues contributing her expertise in driving innovation and shaping defense policies.