On Target: Driving Alignment and Execution in Tactical Defense Tech

Client Overview

Our client is a high-growth defense technology company that has seen revenues increase over 300% over the past three years. Privately owned and top-secret cleared, the company leverages cutting-edge IoT research to deliver AI-enabled weapon sensors (AEWS) that provide critical insights from the tactical edge. These solutions support enhanced situational awareness and predictive logistics for military and professional security forces worldwide. Their products are designed to give warfighters and defense agencies a strategic advantage in large-scale combat operations by turning battlefield data into actionable insights.

The Challenge / Mandate

Our client was a rapidly growing startup that needed to refine its focus on key customer segments and product lines. They sought a Chief of Staff who could serve as the steward of strategic alignment across the company. The role required someone with outstanding business acumen, particularly in go-to-market strategy, who could also earn the respect of a team largely comprised of military veterans.

The Chief of Staff would:

• Translate high-level strategic goals into actionable plans
• Manage cross-functional alignment and ensure accountability
• Oversee key projects, facilitate leadership meetings, and track KPIs
• Lead operational efficiency initiatives, including targeted cost savings and process improvements
• Manage board-level communications and represent the CEO when needed

The right candidate required a rare combination of military leadership experience, top-tier consulting expertise, and hands-on operational experience in defense technology.

Search Strategy

Our search prioritized candidates with a proven track record in strategic planning, operational leadership, and experience in the defense or high-tech industries.

Key criteria included:

• 5+ years in business or product management, operations, or project leadership in defense or high-tech
• Strong communication skills, including experience presenting to executive teams and boards
• Demonstrated ability to drive operational efficiency improvements and lead high-impact projects
• A mix of military leadership, consulting rigor, and commercial operational experience
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or other advanced degree preferred

The Placement

The successful candidate was a former White House Fellow and Green Beret with a distinguished military career, including leadership roles in special operations. He also held corporate leadership positions at Apple and a venture-backed technology startup. Academically, he holds an MBA from MIT, an MPA from Harvard, and a Doctorate in International Affairs from Johns Hopkins, in addition to being a graduate of West Point. Prior to this role, he served as Director of Strategy and Operations at a leading AI platform company, where he managed complex transformation initiatives and advised executive teams.

The Outcome

The placed Chief of Staff quickly became an indispensable leader within the company, driving cross-functional alignment and ensuring operational execution matched strategic goals. His ability to bridge military precision with corporate strategy allowed him to spearhead initiatives that improved operational efficiency and clarified company priorities. His work on KPI implementation and process optimization contributed to measurable cost savings while sustaining rapid growth. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, where he continues to guide the company through its next phase of scale and global expansion.