New SAIC CEO says integration of Engility, talent will be key priorities

Nazzic Keene, who formally takes over the reins of Science Applications International Corp. on Thursday, told Inside Defense today she is focused on continuing to integrate Engility, achieving growth and bolstering the company's position in hiring.

Keene said the integration of Engility has so far met the company's objectives, including its cost synergy goals. "We know that it's not done for many months," she said of the integration effort. "So that's certainly a priority of mine."

Stockholders for both SAIC and Engility approved the multibillion-dollar merger of the two companies in January.

Keene said today she is also seeking to capitalize on the acquisition to see growth.

"We've had modest growth the last couple years," she said, but noted the budget environment presents an opportunity to reach higher rates.

Additionally, Keene said she's spending time focusing on how the company can recruit new employees as well as retain existing ones.

Though she said SAIC continues to assess potential acquisitions, Keene said the contractor is not seeking a major purchase.

"I'd never say never, but doing a big one is not a priority of ours right now," she said.