Kitja Horpayak

About Kitja Horpayak

A proud veteran and data analytics professional, I specialize in governance, team leadership, and delivering actionable insights across the defense, technology, and talent management sectors. In my role as Assistant Director of Performance Analysis for the U.S. Navy’s leading tactical training center, I led analytics teams, managed complex performance data, and helped shape governance processes that supported better decision-making. My work as a Senior Functional and Performance Analyst at General Dynamics IT and a policy analyst at Sigma Defense has further reinforced my commitment to using data thoughtfully to solve challenging problems.Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to lead teams of various sizes and focus on collaboration, using data as a foundation for growth and continuous improvement. I also value supporting people alongside process, having mentored transitioning veterans and managed recruiting teams.

Experience

1. Lead Associate

   Booz Allen Hamilton

   Jan 2026 — Present · San Diego, CA, US

   As the Senior Advisor for the Commander, Naval Surface Forces (CNSF) within the Surface Analytics Group (SAG) and Readiness Operations Center (ROC), I orchestrate collaboration among data scientists, engineers, and operational teams to drive data-informed products that optimize U.S. Navy Surface Force readiness. With 20+ years of Surface Navy experience, I serve as a primary Engagement Manager, bridging operational needs and technical solutions by translating complex requirements into actionable specifications. My involvement extends throughout the product lifecycle; I provide dedicated technical and operational support to users of SAG products and dashboards long after deployment. By maintaining this continuous feedback loop, I troubleshoot emergent issues, optimize solution performance, and ensure that data-driven tools remain relevant and effective in a shifting operational environment.Core Focus AreasEngagement Management: I facilitate seamless project coordination, ensuring that analytics are integrated directly into operational workflows and aligned with the Commander’s strategic objectives.Data Governance & Stewardship: I champion initiatives to develop and enforce robust frameworks, standards, and policies. As a Data Steward, I ensure the accuracy, accessibility, and security of data assets across CNSF analytics operations, applying governance best practices to deliver high-quality, scalable solutions.Operational Integration: The SAG leverages advanced analytics to deliver data-driven insights, empowering leadership with precise, timely information.The ROC builds on these insights to identify and resolve readiness shortfalls, providing the Commander with critical decision-making support to maximize force generation and effectiveness.

Education

• The George Washington University

  Master of Arts (M.A.), Organizational Science and Organizational Management

• Auburn University

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Education - Health Promotion - Business Minor

• Joint Forces Staff College, National Defense University

  Joint Professional Military Education

• U.S. Naval War College

  Master of Arts - (M.A.), National Security and Strategic Studies

Skills

• Strategic Consulting
• Management Consulting
• Budget Management
• Project Planning
• Leadership Development
• Customer Se
• Problem Solving
• Event Planning
• Customer Service
• Human Resources
• Information Technology
• Program Management
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Operational Risk Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Government
• Operational Planning
• Organizational Leadership
• Military Training
• Information Assurance
• Command
• Project Engineering
• Change Management
• Veterans
• U.s. Department of Defense
• Research
• Military
• Team
• Training
• Strategic Leadership
• Microsoft Office
• Project Management
• Strategic Planning
• Team Building
• Process Improvement
• Leadership
• Risk Management
• Military Operations
• Risk Assessment
• Mentoring