David Brinkley brings 25 years of experience executing over $3bn in strategic transactions for middle market firms in the aerospace, defense, government, and security sectors. His security expertise comprises both offensive and defensive cyber operations supporting leading public and private sector organizations.

David is widely recognized for his industry expertise, which encompasses intelligence and national security activities and applied advanced technologies. In addition, David holds unique security credentials that enable him to advise on the most sensitive government transactions. David also serves as a subject matter expert to the Office of the Secretary of Defense on matters pertaining to the financial health of the US defense industrial base and on Pentagon-sponsored technology investments.

Prior to joining Capstone Partners, David founded Castellum Capital Advisors, a boutique investment bank providing advisory services to middle market firms engaged in the national security sector. Castellum Capital served as exclusive financial advisor on several high profile transactions, including large scale corporate divestitures and niche intelligence acquisitions. Prior to founding Castellum Capital, David served as Managing Director of Aronson Capital Partners, where he managed the firm’s buy and sell-side investment banking engagements. While at Aronson Capital, David completed transactions featuring prominent government services and technology firms active in international security, intelligence, and defense, with publicly-traded firms based both in the US and internationally, and with leading private equity sponsors.

David also serves as a Director of NextStep Fitness, a California-based non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and wellness of individuals living with paralysis.

David holds a BS from Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and an MBA in finance from Columbia University. He also serves on the Board of Directors of NextStep Fitness, a California based non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and wellness of individuals living with paralysis.