Press Release
Dr. Joseph Tonon Named VP and Director of CNA’s Strategy, Policy, Plans, and Programs Division
CNA announced today that Dr. Joseph Tonon has been named vice president and director of the Strategy, Policy, Plans, and Programs Division of the Center for Naval Analyses, which is the federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) providing research and analysis for the Department of the Navy.
“Dr. Tonon’s scope of experience leading complex organizations in the intelligence and special operations communities will further strengthen CNA’s reputation in the research community,” said CNA’s CEO and President Dr. Katherine McGrady. “Joe understands issues operating units face as well as how intelligence and technology protection impact our national security. He recognizes the value of real-world analysis. He is also a renowned innovator responsible for developing and implementing policy across critical mission areas including cyber and counterterrorism.”
Tonon comes to CNA from Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, where he was the director for defense and intelligence. Previously, he held various key DoD positions, including senior executive for analysis and tradecraft at Naval Intelligence Activity; acting assistant secretary of defense at special operations and low-intensity conflict (SOLIC); special assistant to the deputy secretary of defense at the Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense; and senior director for intelligence at the Office of the Deputy Undersecretary of the Navy (Policy).
“I relish this opportunity to take decades of experience in the defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity arenas and implement best practices to make the most of the research developed by CNA analysts,” said Tonon. “I have been aware of CNA’s work for several years, and now being part of this team is an honor.”
Tonon is also a Reservist in the U.S. Navy. His service includes time supporting the Chief of Naval Operations Staff to help reintegrate Naval Special Warfare (NSW) into the Navy Program Objective Memorandum build as part of the Planning, Programing, Budget, and Execution (PPBE) process. He was awarded the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Civilian Service, The Secretary of Defense Award for Excellence, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal.
Tonon earned his doctorate and master’s degrees from Washington University in St. Louis and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester.
CNA is a nonprofit research and analysis organization dedicated to the safety and security of the nation. It operates the Center for Naval Analyses—the federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) of the Department of the Navy—as well as the Institute for Public Research. CNA develops actionable solutions to complex problems of national importance. With nearly 700 scientists, analysts, and professional staff, CNA takes a real-world approach to gathering data. Its unique Field Program places analysts on aircraft carriers and military bases, in squad rooms and crisis centers, working side by side with operators and decision-makers around the world. CNA supports naval operations, fleet readiness, and strategic competition. Its non-defense research portfolio includes criminal justice, homeland security, and data management.
Note to writers and editors: CNA is not an acronym and is correctly referenced as "CNA, a research organization in Arlington, VA."