John Tien is a strategic leader with a lifelong commitment to national service. He is the former Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, a retired U.S. Army Colonel with three combat tours, and a proud dad. He is currently serving on the board of Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP), teaching as a Distinguished Professor of the Practice at Georgia Tech and Senior Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, and supporting various non-profits.

John Tien, former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, speaking in front of an American flag

Executive Summary

Multi-sector leader with deep leadership experience in the private sector, U.S. Federal Government, U.S. military, and the non-profit sector. Currently serving as: a board director for Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP); a Distinguished Professor of the Practice at the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs at Georgia Tech; a Harvard Kennedy School Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs; serving on nonprofit boards to include the Avalon Action Alliance supporting mental healthcare for veterans and first responders; and doing public speaking on leadership, the value of public service and various national security matters. He previously served as the Senate confirmed Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in the Biden Administration from June 2021 to July 2023. From 2011 to 2021, was a senior executive in Citigroup, leading teams as a managing director and in various chief operating officer roles. Served in three other presidential Administrations: Obama Administration National Security Council (NSC) Senior Director for Afghanistan and Pakistan; Bush Administration NSC Director for Iraq; and Clinton Administration White House Fellow for the U.S. Trade Representative. Commanded a U.S. Army combat battalion in Iraq and served as the Board Chair for a national veterans non-profit. Rhodes Scholar, West Point First Captain.

Currently based in Atlanta, travels nationally.


click on an image to enlarge view