Terran Orbital Appoints Former Lockheed Leader Cheryl Paquete as Chief Financial Officer

Cheryl Paquete/Terran Orbital

Terran Orbital has appointed Cheryl Paquete as chief financial officer. Paquete will be in charge of the company’s financial strategy and contribute to efforts that would support the company’s plan to scale satellite manufacturing operations.

Who Is Cheryl Paquete?

Paquete spent nearly two decades at Lockheed Martin Space, where she spearheaded its deep space exploration, commercial satellites, weather and Earth science and advanced development programs. She oversaw $350 million in annual mission revenue at the company and led independent cost evaluations across its space portfolio during her time.

Lockheed acquired Terran Orbital and its subsidiary Tyvak International in 2024 as part of its effort to expand its space capabilities. Terran Orbital manufactures satellite technologies for commercial and government customers.

“Cheryl is an exceptional finance leader with a proven record of elevating performance, strengthening business discipline, and building and developing teams that deliver results,” said Peter Krauss, CEO of Terran Orbital. “Her strategic mindset, deep aerospace experience, and commitment to operational excellence make her the perfect fit for Terran Orbital as we advance our mission. We are very happy she is joining us full-time, and I look forward to the impact her leadership will bring.”

Paquete also worked as a mechanical test engineer at Northrop Grumman’s aerospace systems division, according to her LinkedIn profile. She has a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Southern California and a Master of Business Administration from Santa Clara University.