Amend replaces Laroche as Raytheon’s new head in KSA

RIYADH — Raytheon Company has appointed Kurt E. Amend as president, Raytheon International, Inc. (RII) in Saudi Arabia. Amend succeeds Lou Laroche, who will retire at year’s end from the company after nearly 40 years of service. “Having commemorated our 50th anniversary in Saudi Arabia earlier this year, Raytheon and our Saudi customers have built a strong foundation together to help provide for the safety and security of the Kingdom,” said Thomas A. Vecchiolla, president, RII. “Kurt has vast experience in the Gulf region which will serve him well in upholding our commitments to Saudi Arabia, and in partnering on endeavors to support the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision.” Vecchiolla further said “I want to sincerely thank Lou Laroche for his dedicated support of our Saudi customers, and I wish him and his family all the best for the future.” With Raytheon since 2011, Amend most recently served as the vice president of foreign policy and national security affairs in RII. He began his career with the company as an international business development director, later also overseeing the development of the international strategy with regard to government agencies and partnerships. Prior to joining Raytheon, Amend served as a career Foreign Service Officer for 23 years with the US Department of State in the Middle East, South Asia, and the former Soviet Union. — SG