Kraken Robotics is making bold moves to strengthen its leadership team, appointing Kim Butler to its Board of Directors and promoting Bernard Mills to Executive Vice President, Defence. These strategic hires underscore the company’s ambition to scale its underwater robotics and maritime systems business, particularly in the defence sector.
Butler brings over 35 years of executive experience in financial, operational, and governance roles, with a track record in guiding organizations through growth and transformation. Her extensive background includes leading financial operations and strategic planning at major tech and defence firms. Notably, she served as Head of Business Operations and Integration at Ericsson post-acquisition of CENX, where she held interim CEO and CFO/COO roles. Butler also led Bridgewater Systems’ initial public offering in 2007 and its subsequent acquisition by Amdocs in 2011. Her expertise in corporate governance, strategic planning, and mergers and acquisitions will be pivotal as Kraken navigates its next phase of expansion.
“I am very honored and excited to join the Board of Directors at Kraken Robotics and look forward to participating in their continued growth as a global leader in advanced 3D underwater imaging and next-generation subsea battery technologies,” Butler said.
Greg Reid, President and CEO of Kraken Robotics, highlighted Butler’s value to the company: “Kim’s extensive experience in financial leadership, corporate governance, and strategic planning makes her an exceptional addition to our Board. Her proven ability to guide organizations through complex growth and transformation will be invaluable as Kraken advances its mission to deliver innovative marine technology solutions globally.”
Meanwhile, Bernard Mills transitions from the Board of Directors to the executive team, taking on the role of Executive Vice President, Defence. Mills brings a wealth of experience in the defence and aerospace sectors, having recently served as CEO and Managing Director at Stelia North America, an Airbus Group subsidiary. He previously led Ultra Sonar Systems, overseeing the delivery of underwater sensing capabilities to global naval customers. His career also includes roles at Thales, where he worked in both France and Australia.
Mills’ expertise spans strategic growth, operational leadership, and government relations. His appointment comes at a critical time as Kraken aims to expand its defence business, bidding on and delivering complex integrated systems programs. Mills’ experience will help the company manage risks more effectively and develop execution capabilities.
“I’m excited to join Kraken Robotics’ leadership team at a time when global demand for underwater robotics and maritime systems is accelerating,” Mills said. “From my time on the Board of Directors for the last three years, I know Kraken has a strong portfolio, an exceptional team, and deep relationships with leading naval and offshore energy customers. I believe the Company is poised for significant expansion in the years ahead.”
Reid expressed enthusiasm about Mills’ new role: “We are very pleased to have Bernard join Kraken in an executive leadership role. He has achieved significant success in his career as a defence and manufacturing industry executive, and his strategic and operational experience will be a tremendous asset as we take our maritime defence industry business to the next level.”
These leadership appointments reflect Kraken Robotics’ strategic focus on growth and innovation in the defence and maritime sectors. With Butler’s governance and financial acumen and Mills’ operational and strategic expertise, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing global demand for advanced underwater technologies.