Marisa Smith

Marisa Smith is a Partner at Odgers Berndtson and Head of the US Automotive and Mobility Practice.

With over 15 years of experience in executive search and talent management, Marisa is instrumental in enhancing the firm’s presence in the broader Industrial Technology markets and fostering strategic partnerships across American and European regions.

Marisa brings a rich background of expertise to Odgers Berndtson, having held key roles at renowned firms such as Korn Ferry and Bain & Company. She commenced her career in marketing at a prominent German manufacturer of metrology solutions, where she gained valuable industry experience spanning the automotive, mechanical engineering, and medical technology sectors. Having completed over 200 search engagements and an unwavering commitment to promoting diversity recruitment, she boasts a track record in attracting and placing high-impact executives while identifying emerging leaders for public, private, and PE-backed enterprises. 

With extensive experience spanning the Automotive, Mobility and Industrial Tech markets, she leverages her deep industry insights and robust network to provide thought leadership on talent management, succession planning and recruitment strategies. Marisa has guided clients through complex market trends and strategic hiring decision-making resulting in successful placements at prominent companies including, including Ford, General Motors, Harley Davidson, Goodyear, PACCAR, Woodward Inc, and ZF Group. 

Marisa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from the University of North Dakota. Originally from Germany, she speaks English and German

Direct Line: +1 202-559-7414