Aric Stahly

Aric is the Executive Director of The Mandatum Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to preparing elite Special Operations leaders for high-impact civilian careers. A former U.S. Navy SEAL with over 17 years of service, he led complex, high-performing teams in some of the most demanding operational environments in the world, developing a track record of driving results through leadership, adaptability, and disciplined execution. Aric’s perspective is shaped not only by his military experience, but by his own challenging transition into the civilian workforce—where he encountered firsthand how often elite talent is misunderstood or undervalued by traditional hiring processes. That experience now informs his work with hiring managers and organizations, helping them recognize and access a uniquely capable talent pool that brings proven leadership, resilience, and performance under pressure. At The Mandatum Foundation, Aric works to bridge this gap—connecting organizations with exceptional Special Operations professionals who offer a level of accountability, adaptability, and mission focus that sets them apart in today’s workforce.