Dr. Atheer Balasim Gharkan is a distinguished security and administrative executive with more than 30 years of experience in international security management, crisis response, risk assessment, and strategic logistics. With an extensive background rooted in military leadership and United Nations operations, Dr. Gharkan is a proven expert in delivering mission-critical security solutions in complex and high-risk environments across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.
Dr. Gharkan began his career in the Iraqi Ministry of Defense, rising through the ranks to Major. Over his 13-year tenure in the military, he commanded units, directed military intelligence operations, and implemented strategic security frameworks. His work laid a foundation in high-level defense planning and inter-agency coordination, skills that would later serve him on global platforms.
Transitioning to the humanitarian and development sectors, Dr. Gharkan took on leadership roles with Islamic Relief Worldwide and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), both affiliated with the United Nations. As a Security and Logistics Manager with Islamic Relief, he ensured safe and effective delivery of aid during times of crisis, implementing strategic plans that resulted in 99% delivery success and zero asset loss.
At IOM, he served as Area Team Leader and Head of a provincial office, overseeing operational, security, financial, and liaison activities. His innovations increased work capacity and productivity by over 35%, while also securing significant donor funding through successful stakeholder engagement and impact demonstration. His ability to integrate logistics with security planning made him a trusted advisor across both internal teams and government counterparts.
Since 2011, Dr. Gharkan has served as a National Professional Officer with the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). In this role, he has managed security risk strategies, crisis coordination, emergency preparedness, and inter-governmental partnerships. He is particularly respected for his role in establishing liaison networks between UN bodies and host country security forces, ensuring continuity of operations in some of the world’s most volatile zones.
Academically, Dr. Gharkan holds a PhD in International Management from the University of Southampton, a Master’s in International Management from the University of Liverpool, and multiple undergraduate degrees in electrical engineering, military science, and aviation. His academic pursuits complement his field experience, providing a data-driven, analytical approach to leadership and decision-making.
Fluent in both Arabic and English, Dr. Gharkan’s ability to operate cross-culturally has made him an essential figure in fostering trust between international organizations and local communities. He has conducted countless security assessments, led emergency response operations, and trained staff on security protocols, always emphasizing the human element behind strategic operations.
Currently based in Houston, Texas, Dr. Gharkan is actively seeking board roles and advisory positions within industries such as security, logistics, energy, finance, military contracting, and construction. He is passionate about mentoring the next generation of professionals and contributing to organizations that align with his lifelong mission of building safer, more resilient environments.
Beyond his career, Dr. Gharkan is a lifelong learner and a disciplined former military officer. He enjoys reading, swimming, hunting, and spending time with family. His personal values—rooted in duty, discipline, and service—continue to guide his approach to leadership and problem-solving.
Character:
Dr. Gharkan demonstrates unwavering integrity, courage, and a strong sense of duty, rooted in his military and humanitarian service. His leadership is grounded in ethical principles, accountability, and a commitment to serving others under even the most difficult circumstances.
Knowledge:
He brings deep knowledge of international security systems, crisis response, and intergovernmental coordination, strengthened by his academic credentials and global field experience. His ability to merge theory with practice enables him to develop actionable strategies that reduce risk and drive operational success.
Strategic:
Dr. Gharkan excels in planning and executing mission-critical initiatives with precision and foresight. His strategic thinking has not only safeguarded lives and assets but also enhanced operational outcomes in both military and civilian contexts.
Communication:
An accomplished communicator in both Arabic and English, he builds trust across cultures and organizations. His diplomacy, training capabilities, and experience liaising with governments, NGOs, and international bodies make him a valued connector and collaborator.
