Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has announced the addition of Claire Burghoff to its corporate team as the Vice President of Government Affairs & Corporate Communications. In this role, Claire will lead corporate communications for Kratos and will support the company's strategic initiatives in government affairs, leveraging her extensive experience and ability to marry public relations strategies with government affairs initiatives to communicate the value of Kratos’ low-cost, high-performance technology, solutions, and breakthroughs to national defense and governmental leaders.
Claire joins Kratos from Cornerstone Government Affairs, where she brought a permanent public affairs and strategic communications presence to Cornerstone’s Washington, D.C. office and combined communications strategies with government relations tactics on behalf of corporate, association, and nonprofit clients, including Kratos. For Kratos, Claire provided more than five years of exemplary service as a consultant, during which she spearheaded public relations efforts critical to enhancing Kratos' visibility and reputation.
“We are truly excited to welcome Claire Burghoff to our executive team,” said Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos Defense. “Her proven track record and intimate knowledge of Kratos make her an invaluable addition as we navigate through dynamic market landscapes, further strengthen our relationships with key stakeholders, and execute our mission of delivering value to the warfighter and supporting national security.”
Claire Burghoff brings nearly fifteen years of experience in public relations at the intersection of public policy. Her expertise in crafting compelling narratives and fostering strategic partnerships to best reach Kratos’ key stakeholders will play a pivotal role in advancing Kratos' mission and goals.
“It’s an exciting time for Kratos—Kratos’ value proposition has never been more relevant than it is today. I am honored to join the team in this new capacity and contribute to the company's continued success,” said Claire Burghoff. “Kratos has a legacy of innovation and affordability and commitment to national security, and I am excited to amplify our communications and advocacy efforts.”
Ben Goodwin, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development & Government Affairs, said, “Claire's transition to Vice President of Government Affairs & Corporate Communications marks a significant milestone for Kratos. Her strategic insights and dedication to advancing our corporate objectives will undoubtedly enhance our ability to engage with government partners and stakeholders.”
Prior to Cornerstone, Claire served as communications director for the House Budget Committee Majority where she led and implemented short- and long-term communications strategies to effectively message House Republicans’ budgetary priorities. In this position, Claire also ran all communications for the once-in-a-generation budget and appropriations process reform efforts undertaken by the Joint Select Committee on Budget Process Reform. Claire also spent time as an advisor to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma, where she ran the on-the-ground press operation for the CMS Administrator. From 2012-2017, Claire worked in the congressional office of Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR), as well as on Rep. Womack’s campaign. After receiving her bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, she began her career in Washington, D.C., working for Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX).