Colt Defense’s top lawyer Jeff Grody has been hired by Hartford strategic management consultancy Orchid Advisors, which serves gun manufacturers.
Grody’s position at Colt ended last week, though he will be available to provide transitional assistance to successor John Coughlin through the end of the year, Colt disclosed Tuesday in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing.
Orchid CEO Jon Rydberg said in a statement that Grody brings key experience for the firm’s clients.
“Jeff brings our clients an unmatched skill set that is rarely found elsewhere in the U.S. or abroad,” Rydberg said. “That is, an independent expert who brings a balanced perspective on legal risk and high-level business strategy coupled with significant experience in the firearms industry.”
As a principal, Grody will work with Orchid clients on implementing business practices in each stage of growth, from early stage to exit stage, Orchid said. He will also focus on middle-stage companies preparing to expand outside their comfort zone, such as joint ventures or exports.
Colt’s filing said Grody will receive salary and severance for one year equal to his base salary. Grody’s salary was $471,160 in 2013, according to filings.
He is also forbidden for one year from soliciting, contracting or hiring with any Colt employee, and from working in an executive or management role for a competing business.
