Joseph Cofer Black – the former Director of the CIA’s Counterterrorist Center (1999-2002) and Ambassador at Large for counter-terrorism (2002-2004). Mr. Black is an internationally recognized authority on counterterrorism, cyber security, national security, and foreign affairs, with private sector experience and expertise in international business development and strategy, particularly in the Middle East and Africa.

In a government career spanning thirty years and serving at the highest levels of the CIA and the State Department, Ambassador Black conceived and executed highly effective programs of international significance, possessing steady, successful, stand-alone leadership in times of crisis and adversity, and a unique ability to assess and influence people. He is experienced at interacting at the presidential level and with Congress to successfully secure support for critical initiatives, managing media as a diplomatic spokesperson, and representing the United States at the Head of State level. Joseph Cofer Black received the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the CIA’s highest award for achievement.

Since Mr. Black retired from public service in 2005, he has been providing strategic advice to several global companies regarding business development and market risk assessments. In particular, Mr. Black served as Vice Chairman at Blackwater Worldwide (now Academi) and Chairman at Total Intelligence Solutions (Total Intel).

Mr. Black received a Master’s degree (International Affairs) from University of Southern California.