Katherine Jerald

Katherine Jerald is a second-generation recruiter and founder of Elray Search, where she helps mid-market aerospace, satellite, and defense companies land standout executive talent.

Before launching Elray in 2022, Katherine recruited aerospace & defense talent for an FPC office in Lake Chelan, collecting five top-performer awards. She recruits C-Suite, VP, and senior leaders with speed, precision, and insider industry. She’s also known for building leadership teams that are as well-rounded—half of her placements are women.

She holds a business degree from the University of Oregon and an MBA in finance from Washington State (yes, she’s somehow both a Duck and a Cougar). Katherine is a member of the Pinnacle Society and is a regular public speaker at events like the National Insurance Recruiters Association and the NCW Tech Alliance’s Women in STEM.

She also hosts the podcast Mission Critical: Aerospace & Defense Recruiting and has appeared on The Resilient Recruiter, Millionaire Recruiter, and Elite Recruiter. When she’s not closing executive searches or hosting podcasts, she’s chasing birdies, powder days, or mountain views around Lake Chelan.