June 20, 2023

Washington, D.C. – WestExec Advisors announced today that General David Goldfein, USAF (Ret.) has joined the firm’s team as a Principal. In this position, General Goldfein will provide strategic guidance and expertise on the full range of the firm’s services, enabling WestExec clients to seize important business opportunities and successfully navigate the most critical global challenges.

Dave served for 37 years in the United States Air Force, where he was a pilot and commanded at every level, finishing his career as the 21st Chief of Staff of the Air Force. During his time as Chief, he developed and championed the Department of Defense’s signature joint warfighting initiative, Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2). Central to his vision was the creation of the Department’s first Information Warfare Command, which brought together the capabilities of Cyber, Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, and Information Operations. He also developed and executed the largest overhaul of the officer development and promotion system in the Air Force in over thirty years.

Prior to serving as the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Dave was the Vice Chief of Staff, the second highest-ranking officer, where he presided over the Air Staff and served as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Requirements Oversight Council and Deputy Advisory Working Group, advising on high-interest acquisitions and assessing joint military capabilities for the Department of Defense. He has held numerous command positions, notably the deployed Air Component Commander for US Central Command from 2011-2013, where he directed all air and space operations across 20 countries spanning the broader Middle East. An effective coalition-builder, Dave traveled extensively as a military “ambassador,” working with stakeholders across the region and building crucial relationships. He successfully envisioned and built the first-ever Gulf Air Operations Center, with representation from all six Gulf Cooperation Council countries inside his headquarters. He was also the 49th Fighter Wing Commander where he was the last operational pilot trained in the F-117 and led the retirement of the aircraft.

Dave currently serves as a Senior Advisor for Blackstone Investment Group, Chairman of the Board of Draken International LLC, a Blackstone-owned company focused on US and foreign military training, and as the Chair of the Board for Google Public Sector.

“General Goldfein’s extraordinary commitment to public service has indelibly shaped the United States Air Force for the future. He has brought deep expertise and unwavering dedication to the mission in every position he has held. The WestExec team is delighted to welcome David to the team, and we know that his invaluable insights will undoubtedly enrich the firm’s offerings for our clients,” said Michèle Flournoy, Managing Partner and Co-founder of WestExec Advisors.

WestExec Advisors, LLC helps business leaders make the best decisions by advising on geopolitical risk and emerging opportunities. To learn more, visit www.westexec.com or email info@westexec.com.