The Opportunity
Leidos is a global leader in solving challenges within the civil, defense, health, and intelligence markets. This Fortune 500 enterprise is committed to their mission—making the world safer, healthier, and more efficient through technology, engineering, and science. Previously One Of A Kind had worked with Leidos to honor their former CEO on retirement. One Of A Kind also collaborated with Leidos to create their 50th-anniversary lobby art to celebrate the company’s story.
The Client: Leidos
Headquarters: Reston, VA
Industry: Science and Technology
Size: +45,000 Employees
The Story
Their retiring CEO engineered the Leidos’ revenue growth from 2014 – 2022 through major program wins and acquisitions including that of Dynetics and Lockheed Martin’s IT division. Under his watch, the company doubled in size. His strategic vision led to a culture of innovation and investing in critical internal research and development efforts. In 2023, Leidos was named one of the Word’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for its sixth year in a row. As the CEO observed, “Our shared commitment to upholding our core values in every decision and action we take is what sets us apart and inspires us to reach new heights of excellence.” A new headquarters also opened in Reston, VA under his tenure.
The Challenge
This CEO accomplished so much. How do we show this?
He had already received multiple accolades. He was a 2023 Wash100 Award winner and Washington Business Journal #COVID19 Response Leader Award. “A Stellar Career”, Forbes Magazine, observed. As a licensed commercial pilot and marathon runner, his talents and interests were diverse. Having received so many awards and acknowledgments, what could One Of A Kind create that would encompass and surpass them?
The One Of A Kind Expertise
When considering how to honor their retiring CEO, Leidos returned to a trusted partner in One of A Kind. The studio worked with Leidos to honor a previous CEO and to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Leidos knew firsthand the level of expertise and dedication to detail that One Of A Kind brings to every project. Artist Lawrence Romorini and Studio Director Donna Rome have worked together to create commemorative art for over 30 years. With over 1,400 unique projects completed for a variety of clients including many other Fortune 500 companies, Leidos trusted their creativity and experience.
The Process to Create the Art
As curators of companies’ histories, One Of A Kind follows a methodical process to review material and create quality work. During the initial consultation, One Of A Kind receives background on the recipient and collaborates with the client to determine the artistic direction of the project. They establish a clear timetable to ensure the final art is delivered in ample time for the presentation.
Which milestones would Leidos include? A brainstorming call, with questions provided in advance, clarified priorities. Revenue growth was a key feature. The centerpiece became a growth graph with the trajectory displayed in wide brass metal. A silver ribbon labeled with the Core Values–Integrity, Inclusion, Innovation, Agility, Collaboration, Commitment—wraps around the graph to signify the link between Values and the company’s growth. Awards and publications were recreated in miniature. A 3D model of the new Leidos headquarters was crafted to appear above the dedication plaque.
Would personal memorabilia be included? Yes. Leidos opted to feature family and hobbies in addition to his professional career. His alma mater, airplane tail, bicycle, $1 coffee cup, bowl of tortilla soup, and Leidos racecars are nestled as hidden gems.
Was a more traditional or contemporary design preferred? Actually a combination: Mahogany with a bird-eye maple inner border and a background color—Leidos purple. Milestones were engraved onto silver Leidos logo shapes that soared upward with the graph.
One Of A Kind assisted with selecting and editing which items appeared in the final art. After Leidos approved the material, an actual-sized 3D mock-up was created by Romorini. Once the 3D mock-up was approved, the final art began to take shape. A photo of the final art was emailed to the client to confirm everything detail was perfect.
Instructions for installation and how to care for the art are included with every project. One Of A Kind handles delivery logistics.
The Final Result
Some clients present retirement gifts at an event attended by hundreds of people.
The presentation of this artwork was personal, meaningful and moving. Leidos was thrilled:
“Thank you, Donna and Lawrence! What an incredible effort and such a beautiful result.”
Start Your Story!
Contact us to learn more. One Of A Kind can collaborate with you to create the perfect retirement gift!