David R. Kless is the Deputy Commander, Defense Logistics Agency Energy, located at Fort Belvoir, VA. Mr. Kless enables mission readiness by providing globally resilient energy solutions (from fuel for airplanes, ships, and equipment, to rocket propellants, cryogens, alternative energy, natural gas, and electricity) to the DOD and other government agencies.
Prior to his current position, Mr. Kless served as the Executive Director, DLA Operations, responsible for coordinating and synchronizing DLA’s day-to-day worldwide logistics, acquisition, and technical support services in support of combatant commands, military services, federal, state, and civil agencies and foreign governments.
Mr. Kless was selected into the Senior Executive Service in 2018. He has over 34 years in combined military and civilian service. He served in the U.S. Navy performing multiple logistics and operational assignments within the logistics and acquisition communities. As a civilian, Mr. Kless served DLA as the Division Chief for Whole of Government Support in Logistics Operations and later as DLA’s Deputy Chief of Staff.
Mr. Kless holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the U.S. Naval Academy, Master of Science degree in Operations Research from the Navy Postgraduate School and Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He is certified as an Acquisition Professional after successfully completing certification requirements at Life Cycle Logistics Advanced.
Mr. Kless’ awards include the Exceptional Civilian Service Award and three Meritorious Civilian Service Awards. His military awards include Defense Superior Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal, two awards; Best Retail Sales and Service Award; Navy and Marine Association Peer Selected Leadership Award; Navy Battle Efficiency Award; Admiral Stanley R. Arthur Award for Logistics Excellence; and Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, four awards.