Dave Bakkeby

Senior Client Partner, Sector Leader, Aerospace & Defense, Government

David Magnus Bakkeby is a seasoned search leader with over 30 years of focus in the areas of Defense, Aerospace, Technology and Government. 

In his role within the Professional Search Industrial team, his search assignments span from Senior Manager to Vice President roles, in the fields of Sales / Business Development, Engineering, Operations and Supply Chain. In recent years, an offshoot in search work for Physical Security leadership has developed and flourished.

By maintaining an active presence at industry conferences and forums, David brings industry-specific insights to his clients and engagements. His client experience  ranges from founder-led companies to large Defense Prime Contractors, including a significant number of VC-backed and PE-backed organizations.  

Prior to joining Korn Ferry, David held leadership roles in business development and enterprise program development at TCW Global, a pioneer in contingent workforce technology, and Orion Talent, a leader in transitioning military talent and Recruiting Process Outsourcing (RPO). 

In his early career, David served as a Logistics and Supply Officer with the Marine Corps' 1st Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Intelligence Group. Due to a military drawdown cycle upon his college graduation, he initially worked as an accountant for an 8(a)-government contractor in the greater DC area. He holds a BS in Accounting from Oral Roberts University and an MSA in Leadership from Central Michigan University.

David remains actively involved with The Honor Foundation and military transition programs in the San Diego community.