Charles Church

About Charles Church

Strategic Business Development Executive | Former DHS CIO | Submarine OfficerThe Mission: Bridging the Gap Between Open Source Innovation and Federal Resilience.In the federal sector, technology is only as effective as the mission outcomes it enables. As a Strategic Business Development Executive at Red Hat, I focus on accelerating the adoption of enterprise open-source solutions across the DHS, DOJ, DOT, DOE, USPS, and GSA.My approach is rooted in the belief that strategic relationships—built on trust and technical credibility—are the primary engine for mission success. I specialize in translating C-level access into actionable market intelligence, leveraging AI-driven insights to navigate complex IT modernization efforts and competitive landscapes.What I Bring to the Table:The CIO Perspective: Having served as a CIO within DHS, I understand the bureaucratic and technical hurdles of large-scale modernization. I don\'t just sell software; I provide a roadmap for secure, automated, and scalable digital transformation.Tactical Execution: For 4 years, I have served as a subject matter expert, aligning Red Hat’s portfolio (including AI and OpenShift) with the specific needs of agencies like CISA, TSA, and FEMA.Strategic Partnerships: I bridge the gap between federal agencies and system integrators, fostering an ecosystem that drives pipeline growth and high-impact deployment. My Core Focus Areas:AI & Automation: Driving the next generation of mission engineering through intelligent, open-source frameworks.Mission Alignment Working alongside enterprise architects to ensure technology serves the end-user in the field.Executive Networking: Recognized as a top networker in the national security sector, I prioritize meaningful collaboration over simple transactions.Background & Leadership:My trajectory began in the U.S. Navy as a Submarine Officer, where I led the deployment of computer-based training for the submarine force. That foundation of precision and leadership carried through my time in product management at America Online and continues to define my role as a trusted advisor in the national security space today.Let\'s Connect.I am always looking to engage with fellow leaders in the National Security and FedCiv sectors. Whether it\'s discussing the future of OpenShift or the nuances of federal IT policy, I’m here for the conversation.

Experience

1. Strategic Business Development Executive Homeland Security, Transportation, Justice, Gsa, and Energy

   Red Hat

   Mar 2022 — Present · Vienna, VA, US

   Act as the Primary Subject Matter Expert for the Department of Homeland Security, Justice, Transportation, Energy, and GSA showcasing the business value of Red Hat solutions to meet customer missions.• Collaborate with federal system integrators and partners to support critical missions and IT modernization efforts.• Manage executive-level relationships, craft compelling messages, and create program pursuit opportunities to drive pipeline growth.

Education

• United States Naval Academy

  B.S., Oceanography

  1977 — 1981

• Naval Postgraduate School

  M.S, Systems Technology

  1985 — 1987

Skills

• Public Speaking
• Customer Relationship Management (Crm)
• Strategy
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Systems Engineering
• Start-Ups
• Government
• Product Management
• Cloud Computing
• Professional Services
• New Business Development
• Computer Security
• Information Technology
• Security Clearance
• Government Contracting
• Process Improvement
• Executive Management
• Information Security
• Solution Selling
• Cmmi
• Program Management
• IT Operations
• Homeland Security
• Sales
• Strategic Partnerships
• Organizational Leadership
• Policy
• Information Assurance
• Business Development
• Identity Management
• Risk Management
• IT Strategy
• Vendor Management
• Data Center
• Pmo
• Pmp
• Leadership
• Strategic Planning
• Integration
• Business Intelligence