Brett Irwin Joins Odgers Berndtson as Principal in Aerospace, Defense and Security Practice

Odgers Berndtson is excited to announce that Brett Irwin has joined the firm as a Principal in the Aerospace, Defense & and Security Practice, based in Washington, D.C. Brett specializes in recruiting world-class leaders in technology services, artificial intelligence, and data analytics for the national security community.

Brett brings a wealth of executive search and leadership advisory experience to the team. Prior to joining Odgers Berndtson, he founded and led a boutique search firm in Zurich, Switzerland. He began his career in recruitment in the Zurich office of a global talent acquisition consultancy.

Before transitioning to the private sector, Brett served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Army, leading unmanned aviation operators and government contractors in Germany and Afghanistan. His combination of military background, international experience and focus on emerging technology provides valuable perspective for our GovCon clients, and make him a key addition to our growing Aerospace, Defense and Security team.

Brett graduated summa cum laude from Bucknell University with a B.A. in political science, economics, and history. 

Reflecting on his new role, Brett says, "The Aerospace, Defense and Security practice at Odgers Berndtson is the undisputed global leader in the market. It's an honor to join Mercedes LeGrand, Jon Barney, Clarke Havener, and the entire team. I am excited to contribute to the team’s work of connecting mission-critical defense and government contracting firms with truly exceptional executive leadership talent.”

Mercedes LeGrand, Partner & Head of Odgers Berndtson’s Global Aerospace, Defense, & Security Practice, expressed her enthusiasm for Brett's arrival: "Clarke, Jon and I are thrilled to welcome Brett to Odgers, and to continue to build on our world class team. Brett’s unique blend of executive search expertise, international exposure, deep knowledge of the tech sector, and military leadership background align perfectly with our culture and focus. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to white-glove client service reinforce our commitment to providing an elevated experience for our Aerospace & Defense and Government Services clients."

Please join us in welcoming Brett to the Odgers Berndtson team. We look forward to the fresh insights, camaraderie and top-level quality he will bring to our Practice and our clients.