David Kelly

Executive Summary

David is a seasoned executive and technologist with a proven track record of scaling advanced technology businesses across marine robotics, aquaculture, and defense systems. With over three decades of leadership, he has transformed early-stage ventures into global market leaders through strategic vision, disciplined execution, and M&A-driven growth. David’s expertise spans autonomous systems, AI-enabled sensing, and precision aquaculture, shaped by senior roles at Innovasea, Bluefin Robotics, and Raytheon. His career reflects a deep commitment to innovation, global impact, and building resilient organizations at the intersection of technology and mission.

Key Highlights

Led Innovasea as CEO/CTO for a decade, transforming it into a global aquaculture and fish tracking powerhouse with operations across six countries, executing four strategic acquisitions, and delivering an impressive 45% compound annual growth rate.

As President & CEO of Bluefin Robotics, transitioned the company from R&D focus to full-spectrum AUV provider, diversified the customer base, and expanded into commercial offshore energy markets with major wins from Chevron and Total.

Built global market reach and cross-sector growth through targeted M&A and development of AI-powered SaaS tools, advancing operational precision and real-time analytics in aquaculture and marine systems.

Played a pivotal role in maturing early-stage defense and commercial technologies into scalable platforms, overseeing the evolution from prototypes to production contracts and international deployments.

Serves as a board-experienced executive with deep expertise in scaling technology-driven companies, integrating product, process, and market strategy to drive long-term enterprise value across the ocean technology domain.