BigBear.ai Holdings (BBAI) witnessed a remarkable surge of 16.90% in its stock price during intraday trading on Thursday. This substantial upward movement can be attributed to the company's announcement of a leadership change at the helm.
The artificial intelligence solutions provider revealed that its Board of Directors has appointed Kevin McAleenan as the new Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board, effective immediately. McAleenan succeeds Mandy Long, who is stepping down as CEO and from the Board but will transition to serve as an advisor to the company.
The market's positive reaction reflects investors' confidence in McAleenan's ability to lead BigBear.ai forward, given his extensive experience in government and national security. Before joining BigBear.ai as President, McAleenan co-founded and served as CEO of Pangiam, which BigBear.ai acquired in 2024. He has also held senior leadership roles within the U.S. government, including Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security and Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.