Nigeria’s Terra Industries, a defence technology startup, has appointed Todd Stiefler as Director of Commercial, continuing a series of senior leadership hires as the company accelerates its global expansion.
Stiefler’s appointment comes just a week after Terra announced Ben MacWilliams as Vice President of Strategy.
Earlier this year, the company also strengthened its leadership team with the addition of Nnamdi Chife as Vice President of Military Relations, underscoring its focus on scaling commercial operations, strategic partnerships, and government engagement.
Stiefler brings a blend of commercial and public sector experience to the role. He began his career with positions at the U.S. Department of State and the United States Senate before moving into the private sector with GE Digital and GE Aviation.
During his time at GE, he led product marketing and product management initiatives across defence, aviation, and oil and gas, giving him experience commercialising complex technologies for both government and enterprise customers.
More recently, Stiefler spent 11 months on Palantir’s business development team before joining wearable technology company WHOOP as vice president of enterprise. He also founded Shipton Global Advisors, a consultancy that helps technology companies expand into African markets.
The appointment comes as Terra Industries enters a new phase of growth following an additional $18 million in funding.
While the company has built its business serving African defence and security markets, it is increasingly looking beyond the continent.
Terra expects to open a second manufacturing facility in Ghana by the fourth quarter of 2026, is exploring manufacturing opportunities in the Middle East, and has established a London office to strengthen access to investors, customers, and artificial intelligence talent across Europe.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
