One such name is Marillyn Hewson, one of the most influential businesswomen in the world and the former CEO of Lockheed Martin, the largest defense company in the United States.
Who Is Marillyn Hewson?
Marillyn Adams Hewson is an American businesswoman and one of the most powerful female CEOs in history. She served as the Chairman, President, and CEO of Lockheed Martin from 2013 to 2020. Under her leadership, Lockheed Martin became a global giant in aerospace, defense, and advanced technology.
She is known for her strong management style, strategic thinking, and commitment to innovation. In fact, she was listed multiple times among the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women by Forbes.
Quick Info Marillyn Hewson
Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marillyn Adams Hewson |
| Born | December 27, 1953 |
| Age | 71 (2025) |
| Birthplace | Kansas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
Career Info
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | Lockheed Martin |
| CEO Term | 2013–2020 |
| Retired | 2021 |
| Key Contribution | Expansion of aerospace & defense technologies |
Family & Personal Life
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Husband | James Hewson |
| Children | 2 |
| Religion | Christianity |
Net Worth
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (2025) | $120–150 million |
| Salary as CEO | $20–30 million per year |
Table of Contents
Early Life of Marillyn Hewson
Marillyn Hewson Young Years
Marillyn Hewson was born on December 27, 1953, in Junction City, Kansas, USA. She was raised in a middle-class family with strong values. Her father passed away when she was young, and her mother—who was a schoolteacher—raised the children alone.
Growing up in a disciplined household taught Marillyn the value of hard work, responsibility, and leadership. She often credits her mother for her success.
Marillyn Hewson Education
Education was always important in Marillyn’s life. She completed:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration – University of Alabama
- Master’s Degree in Economics – University of Alabama
- Executive Development Programs at
- Columbia Business School
- Harvard Business School
Her strong education and leadership training helped shape her career path.
Marillyn Hewson Age
As of 2025, Marillyn Hewson is 71 years old.
Her long and successful career continues to inspire millions around the world.
Religion, Husband & Family
Marillyn Hewson Husband
She is married to James Hewson, and they have two children together. Her husband has always supported her demanding work schedule.
Marillyn Hewson Religion
She follows Christianity, which also influenced her family values and leadership approach.
Her personal life is private, and she rarely appears in media with her family.
Career Journey
Joining Lockheed Martin
Marillyn joined Lockheed Martin in 1983. She started with entry-level managerial roles and gradually proved her capability through dedication and strategic mindset.
Rising Through the Company
Over the next three decades, she held leadership roles in:
- Strategic planning
- Operations
- Business development
- Energy division
- Aerospace division
Her strong decision-making made her a respected leader inside the company.
Marillyn Hewson as CEO of Lockheed Martin
She became the CEO of Lockheed Martin in 2013, one of the biggest milestones of her career.
Under her leadership:
- Revenue reached record levels
- Lockheed grew into a global tech and defense powerhouse
- The company developed advanced fighter jets like F-35
- She expanded technology programs in AI, cybersecurity, and space systems
She was admired for her strong management and future-focused vision.
Why Did Marillyn Hewson Step Down?
Marillyn Hewson stepped down as CEO in June 2020.
The reasons included:
- Smooth leadership transition
- Preparing the company for next-generation challenges
- Personal choice to move into an executive chairman role
When did Marillyn Hewson retire?
She officially retired from all roles in 2021.
Marillyn Hewson Net Worth & Salary (2025)
Marillyn Hewson is among the highest-paid female executives in U.S. history.
Estimated Net Worth (2025):
$120–150 million
Annual Salary (During CEO Years):
Between $20–30 million per year, including bonuses and stock options.
Her wealth comes from:
- Lockheed Martin salary
- Stock earnings
- Board memberships
- Consulting roles
Awards & Achievements
Some major recognitions:
- Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year
- Listed in Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women multiple times
- CEO of the Year by Chief Executive Magazine
- Aviation Week’s Laureate Award
- Member of the National Academy of Engineering
Her awards reflect her influence in global business and technology.
Impact & Legacy
Marillyn Hewson is known for:
- Strong decision-making
- Innovation in defense technology
- Breaking gender barriers
- Leading one of the largest companies in the world
- Empowering female leadership
She remains a role model for women in business and engineering.
FAQs
1. What is Marillyn Hewson known for?
She is best known for being the CEO of Lockheed Martin, leading the company to global success.
2. Why did Marillyn Hewson step down?
To allow a smooth leadership transition and shift to an executive chairman role.
3. When did Marillyn Hewson retire?
She fully retired from leadership roles in 2021.
4. Who was the last CEO of Lockheed Martin?
Before stepping down, Marillyn Hewson was the CEO. After her, James Taiclet became CEO.
5. What is Marillyn Hewson’s religion?
She follows Christianity.
6. How much is Marillyn Hewson’s net worth?
Her net worth is around $120–150 million in 2025.
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