deciBel Research, an employee-owned defense contractor specializing in advanced radar system and sensor technologies, announced a planned leadership transition within its Contracts department. After a distinguished career of full-time service, Deborah Agarwal will retire from full-time capacity and transition into a part-time role as a Contracts Advisor. Concurrently, the company is proud to announce the promotion of Kimberly L. Waugh to Director, Contracts.

Ms. Agarwal has been a critical pillar of deciBel Research’s business operations. Her strategic oversight and foundational leadership have been instrumental in the company’s success across multiple complex defense programs. “Debbie’s leadership and expertise have been instrumental in our success, and we are deeply grateful for her commitment and impact over the years,” said Eric Cochran, Chief Financial and Operating Officer of deciBel Research. In her new advisory capacity, Ms. Agarwal will continue to provide the organization with her invaluable institutional knowledge and strategic guidance.

Stepping into the role of Director, Contracts, Kimberly L. Waugh brings over 24 years of comprehensive expertise in contracts and subcontracts administration. Ms. Waugh has been an integral part of the deciBel Research team for over 15 years, intentionally expanding her scope of work in readiness for this leadership role. Since joining the company in July 2011, she has managed the full lifecycle of contracts, led complex negotiations, and ensured stringent compliance across numerous government agreements.

“We are confident that this transition will strengthen our Contracts team for the long term, thanks to the foundation Debbie has built in preparation for this moment,” Cochran stated. “Kim’s knowledge, dedication, and leadership have consistently benefited the team, and we are excited to see her step into this role.”

Prior to her tenure at deciBel Research, Ms. Waugh served in progressive contracting and management roles at several large defense contractors. She successfully managed a large Prime BPA, overseeing coordination with over 300 teammates and providing active subcontract administration for dozens of active subcontractors.

Ms. Waugh holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Learning from East Tennessee State University and has earned Professional Certificates in Basic and Advanced Contract Management from the University of Alabama, Huntsville. She is also a graduate of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) Leadership Development Program.