Christopher Burn

Ex–Special Forces | Hiring Veterans for Defense & National Security

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

About

I build mission‑critical teams across defense, national security, and dual‑use technology companies. Based in Virginia, I work with defense startups, primes, and emerging tech companies across the U.S. that need people who can execute from day one. Veterans are my unfair advantage. I specialize in placing high‑calibre veteran talent into roles where operational judgement, pressure tolerance, and mission focus actually matter; And I also staff the full stack: engineers, GTM operators, and leaders who can deliver in defense environments. Why it works: I’ve operated in the same world my clients sell into and my candidates work in: special operations, defense programs, and high‑stakes delivery. That background shapes how I recruit; Fast, precise, and anchored to mission outcomes, not vanity metrics. I focus on people who can: - Navigate defense ecosystems, acquisition, and procurement - Perform under pressure with clarity and discipline - Translate strategy into execution inside complex organisations Who I help - Defense and autonomy startups building GTM, BD, and engineering teams - National security organizations scaling programs against hard deadlines - Dual‑use and emerging tech companies hiring leaders who bridge mission and market If you need talent...veteran or non‑veteran that can deliver from day one in a mission‑critical environment, let’s talk.

Experience

  • Founder at DigitalTalentCollective
    Jun 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 1 mo

    At Digital Talent Collective, we connect aerospace and defense organizations with professionals who drive mission-critical innovation. Based in Virginia, our veteran-led team specializes in pairing A&D employers with elite talent

  • Recruitment Consultant (via DigitalTalentCollective) at Merlin
    Oct 2025 - Present · 9 mos

    Partnering with Merlin Labs as an in-house recruitment consultant to scale their defense and autonomous systems teams. Supporting full-cycle hiring strategy, high-level role scoping, and talent pipeline development for key positions.

  • Executive Board Member at Cyber Security Global Alliance
    Jul 2024 - Present · 2 yrs

    I connect the best cybersecurity professionals in the country; veterans and non-veterans alike—with meaningful work. At the Cyber Security Global Alliance, I focus on veteran outreach and fostering connections in the cybersecurity community, helping ensure a safer digital landscape and supporting professional growth.

  • Head of Talent Acquisition at Digi2al Ltd
    Jul 2022 - Jun 2024 · 2 yrs

  • UK Ministry of Defence (Full-time · 11 yrs)
    • UK Special Missions Unit
      Aug 2016 - Aug 2023 · 7 yrs 1 mo

    • .
      Sep 2012 - Aug 2016 · 4 yrs