Lazard has appointed Matt Spence Head of Defense Technology and Emerging Technology within its Technology Group, strengthening the firm’s advisory capabilities as investment and deal activity increases across defense and dual-use technologies.
Spence is based in San Francisco and will advise defense, security and other emerging technology companies on mergers and acquisitions as well as financing transactions.
He joins Lazard from Barclays, where he served as Managing Director and Global Head of Venture Capital Banking.
At Barclays, Spence built and led the firm’s defense technology and dual-use technology investment banking franchise.
His earlier private-sector experience includes senior roles at Guggenheim Partners and a position as a Partner at Andreessen Horowitz.
Spence also spent seven years in U.S. government national security positions, including service as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East Policy and on the White House National Security Council.
That combination gives Lazard an executive with experience spanning technology investment banking, venture capital and national security.
The firm expects those perspectives to be relevant as defense and dual-use companies navigate a market increasingly shaped by private capital, government demand, emerging technologies and changing security requirements.
Spence holds a doctorate in international relations from Oxford University and a J.D. from Yale Law School, along with bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Stanford University.
He is also a co-founder of the Truman National Security Project and a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
“Few bankers can speak to defense and dual-use technology from multiple angles the way Matt can. His arrival at the firm strengthens the coverage we can offer across defense and emerging technology and gives our clients a partner who deeply understands the industry.”
Mark Dolins, Head of the Technology Group at Lazard
“Defense and dual-use technology are being reshaped by capital, policy, geopolitical forces, and innovation all at once, and Lazard’s platform is uniquely built to advise companies through that shift.”
Matt Spence, Head of Defense Technology and Emerging Technology at Lazard
