Bluefin Robotics, a leader in the deisgn and manufacturing of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) is pleased to annouce Mr Jeffrey M. Smith as its chief operating officer.

Mr. Smith joined Bluefin in May of 2008 as the director of programs. He is a mechanical engineer by training and spent 15 years with General Dynamics prior to joining Bluefin. In Smith’s most recent role as the director of programs at Bluefin, he established a program management organization within Bluefin to effectively manage the growing complexity of government and commercial contracts.

He also implemented the process framework for program management necessary to support Bluefin’s recent ISO 9001:2008 certification for the design, development, manufacturing, operation, and servicing of their autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and related products. His primary focus at Bluefin will be to continue to lead the company’s capture efforts for large development programs and maintain growth in the defense sector.

"Jeff’s track record of capturing and executing contracts assurs me his new role as chief operating officer will prove fruitful," said David P. Kelly, president and CEO of Bluefin. "I look forward to having Jeff play a significant part in shaping the future of this company."