D'Anne Spence

Colonel D’Anne Emmett Spence, USAF (Ret.) is a highly accomplished senior executive and national security leader with over two decades of experience across the Department of Defense, federal executive agencies, and industry. Known for her strategic insight, diplomatic acumen, and ability to translate complex defense and policy matters into actionable solutions, Col. Spence brings an exceptional record of leadership, legislative expertise, and operational success to the defense consulting arena.

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During her distinguished 23-year military career, Col. Spence held influential positions at the Pentagon, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Her extensive experience includes overseeing multi-billion dollar defense portfolios, securing critical national security funding, and leading cross-functional teams in high-stakes environments, including wartime operations in Afghanistan.

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Most recently, she served as Chief of Staff to the CEO and President of Ankura Consulting Group, where she advanced enterprise-wide strategic initiatives and bridged communication and decision-making across corporate leadership. Prior to that, she was Senior Director for Defense & Energy Government Relations at Jacobs Engineering, where she successfully advocated for key DOD and DOE programs, including restoring $450M in satellite program funding and protecting missile defense investments.

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In government, Col. Spence was a pivotal figure in the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Washington, D.C. office, managing congressional and Pentagon engagement for the Academy’s $400M annual budget. As Special Assistant for Legislative Affairs at the Office of the Secretary of Defense, she supported the President’s Nuclear Posture Review and coordinated confirmation hearing preparations for top defense leaders. Her previous roles span senior protocol officer, strategic communications leader in Afghanistan, and liaison to Capitol Hill on nuclear security issues.

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Col. Spence is a decorated combat veteran and holds multiple military commendations, including the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star. She actively contributes to national security policy as a board member for organizations including Warriors Ethos, the Strategic Deterrence Coalition, and the Military Benefit Association. She holds advanced degrees in Chemistry, Military Operations, and Business Administration.

Col. Spence maintains an active security clearance and continues to advise clients on defense strategy, government relations, and executive decision-making in today’s complex geopolitical landscape.