Mercedes LeGrand

Mercedes LeGrand is a Partner & Head of Odgers Berndtson’s Global Aerospace, Defense & Security Practice, based in the Washington, D.C. office.

A seasoned executive search leader and business strategist, she has successfully built and transformed organizations, advising F1000 public, private, and PE-backed clients on securing game-changing leadership at the Board, CEO, and C-suite levels. 

With 20 years of experience consulting and recruiting in the Aerospace, Defense, Intelligence, and Security sectors, Mercedes has also played an active role in driving Digital Transformation and Diversity & Inclusion initiatives. Her expertise has earned her recognition as a Top 10 GovCon Recruiter by ExecutiveBiz.

Beyond executive search, Mercedes has been successful in business and has held—and continues to hold—board positions, including a seat on Odgers Berndtson's US Board of Directors, where her deep expertise in management consulting, leadership advisory, and strategic mindset are highly valued.

Mercedes holds an MBA from both Columbia Business School and London Business School and earned her B.A. in Government and International Politics from George Mason University. She is also a Court Appointed Special Advocate for Children in Alexandria and Arlington, Virginia, demonstrating her dedication to community impact.