Acquisition professionals have a new champion at DAU. Ms. Bilyana Anderson was formally welcomed as the new DAU President at a ceremony hosted by Mr. Gary A. Ashworth, Performing the Duties of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Acquisition.  

Anderson’s Commitment to the Acquisition Workforce  

Anderson’s career spans years of dedicated service and a relentless pursuit of excellence for our country—qualities that align with DAU’s mission and commitment to the Defense Acquisition Workforce. Previously, Anderson served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Ship Programs where she was responsible for executive oversight of all naval shipbuilding programs, major ship conversions, and the modernization and disposal of in-service ships.  

Under Anderson’s leadership, DAU will foster an environment of innovation and collaboration across the acquisition community. Referencing her Navy background and future at DAU, she cited a quote often attributed to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood and give orders,” she said. “Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.” 

“We have a huge responsibility to the nation to ensure our acquisition cadre is ready,” said Anderson. She outlined her approach to leading DAU as:  

• Charting a course together as a leadership team  

• Continuing DAU’s excellence and world-class quality 

• Measuring DAU’s achievement through metrics and benchmarks 

• Collaborating with Services, industry, Congress and others 

• Keeping the warfighter in the forefront of everything DAU does 

Anderson will view DAU’s portfolio through the lens of a program manager, one of three fields in which she has achieved Level III acquisition certification. “I very much like to surround myself with the best and brightest, and empower folks to lead,” she said. “I knew DAU would be a good fit, as you are all the experts, and I will rely on your expertise and wisdom.”