Tel-a-Viv. 06 December 2023. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. is pleased to announce the appointment of  Yoav Turgeman as the Chief Executive Officer of the company. This strategic decision was made by the board of directors, who, in a unanimous choice, selected Mr. Turgeman based on the recommendation of the search committee. The selection process adhered to the rigorous standards for CEO appointments in government-owned entities.

The appointment is pending approval from the appointments committee, the Minister of Defense, and the Regional Cooperation Minister responsible for government companies.

Yoav Turgeman, served in various command and staff roles in the Israeli Navy for 25 years, retiring as a Colonel. Following his military service, Turgeman entered the aerospace industry, initially heading the “Arrow” program and later managing the MLM facility. Since 2018, he has been serving as the CEO of “Elta.”

Possessing bachelor’s and master’s degrees with honors in electrical engineering from Tel Aviv University, along with additional degrees from the University of Haifa and Bar Ilan University, Mr. Turgeman is well-equipped to lead Rafael. He will succeed Major General (Ret.) Yoav Har-Even, who served as the CEO for over 8 years.

Major General Har-Even has agreed to extend his tenure in response to the board’s request, due to the ongoing “Swords of Iron” war ensuring a smooth transition with the incoming CEO.

Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Chairman of the Board at RAFAEL commended the decision, expressing confidence that Turgeman possesses the requisite experience, capabilities, and skills needed to guide RAFAEL successfully through the challenges and goals ahead. Dr. Steinitz also expressed gratitude to Major General Har-Even for his substantial contributions over the years and his current efforts in the “Swords of Iron” war.