Confidential search · Europe-wide

The right leaders for Europe's defence mandate.

We place executives, senior technical leaders and specialist talent across Europe's defence and dual-use landscape — with discretion, integrity and sector depth.

For client companies For senior candidates

(a) Services

Built for critical appointments

Tailored recruitment that secures the leadership and expertise your organisation needs to succeed.

Executive Search

We identify and attract senior leaders who combine business acumen with deep defence understanding.

CEOs · CTOs · Directors · Programme Leaders

Specialist Recruitment

Engineers, analysts and programme managers with security clearance and sector-specific insight.

Tech · Cybersecurity · Systems · Procurement · AI · ISR

Advisory for Market Entry

Entering the defence market? We help you build the right team and capability from the ground up.

Market insight · Culture · Procurement · Networks

(b) Method

A controlled, four-stage mandate

Stage 01

Brief & mandate

Role architecture, success criteria and stakeholder alignment.

Stage 02

Market mapping

Discreet, multi-source intelligence across European networks.

Stage 03

Assessment

Structured evaluation of capability, credibility and cultural fit.

Stage 04

Placement

Negotiation, transition and continued partnership.

Where we focus

Deep understanding of complex, regulated and mission-critical environments.

Aerospace & Satcom01

Autonomy & AI02

Cyber & Electronic Warfare03

Naval & Maritime04

Land Systems05

Dual-use Technology06

Programme & Procurement07

Security & Resilience08

(d) Defence Executive

People are the strategic advantage.

Defence Executive is a specialist recruitment firm for leadership and expert roles. We support companies looking to grow, innovate or establish themselves in one of the world's most complex and high-stakes markets.

For client companies

Open a confidential search

Talk to us about a leadership, specialist or market-entry mandate in Europe.

Start a conversation

For senior candidates

Your path to leadership

Join our network and explore opportunities where your experience can make a real impact.