John P. Williams is a dynamic and innovative leader with over 35 years of experience in strategic communication, national security, and organizational leadership. As the founder and principal of Powell Strategies, LLC, he has dedicated his career to helping organizations navigate complex challenges, drive mission success, and enhance strategic engagement. His expertise spans military operations, defense policy, program management, and stakeholder engagement, making him a sought-after advisor for government agencies, corporate leaders, and nonprofit organizations.
John’s career began with 20 years of distinguished service in the United States Marine Corps, where he held multiple leadership roles as an infantry officer, intelligence officer, and foreign area officer. His operational experience includes combat deployments in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, along with strategic postings in the Middle East, Balkans, and Israel. His deep knowledge of irregular warfare, counterterrorism, and global security threats has shaped his ability to develop and implement high-impact strategies in complex environments.
Following his military service, John transitioned into academia and policy research, serving as the deputy director at the Center for Middle East & Islamic Studies at the United States Naval Academy. In this role, he managed foreign educational programs, research grants, and strategic initiatives, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in international security and defense policy. His work at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory as program manager for asymmetric and irregular challenges allowed him to apply analytical methodologies, modeling, and simulation tools to address emerging security threats.
In 2012, John took on the role of chief operating officer at the Institute for the Study of War, a leading think tank specializing in military strategy and policy analysis. There, he oversaw a $2.2 million budget, implemented strategic communication initiatives, and built government and industry partnerships to strengthen national security research. His leadership in policy development, stakeholder engagement, and organizational growth positioned him as a key figure in bridging the gap between academia, government, and private industry.
Recognizing the need for specialized consulting in strategic communication and program management, John founded Powell Strategies, LLC in 2012. Powell Strategies has since become a trusted advisor for public and private sector clients, specializing in crisis communication, risk management, and veteran transition services. The firm’s mission is simple: “Work That Matters”—helping clients achieve impact-driven results while enhancing organizational effectiveness.
Beyond his professional roles, John is an active leader in nonprofit governance, serving as a trustee of the Virginia Military Institute Foundation and serving on the Board of Trustees at the Boys Home of Virginia. His passion for mentorship, education, and community service is reflected in his dedication to developing the next generation of leaders and ensuring long-term sustainability for mission-driven organizations.
John’s academic achievements include a Master of Arts in National Security Affairs from the Naval Postgraduate School and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Virginia Military Institute. He has also completed MIT’s Seminar XXI Program on National Security, the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program at Babson College, and the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Veteran Institute for Procurement. His additional credentials include Project Management Professional certification and a U.S. Coast Guard Master Mariner license.
With a strong international background, John has worked extensively in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, engaging in foreign policy analysis, cross-cultural negotiations, and strategic planning. He is proficient in Croatian, Serbian, and German, further enhancing his ability to operate in diverse geopolitical landscapes.
A recognized thought leader, John has published book reviews, academic articles, and policy analyses in Proceedings (U.S. Naval Institute), Middle East Quarterly, and other scholarly publications. He has also organized and spoken at high-profile conferences, including the Transcending Borders: Asia, Middle East, and the Global Community Symposium. His expertise in security policy, strategic planning, and risk mitigation makes him an indispensable resource for organizations facing complex global challenges.
John’s personal interests include sailing, art, and leadership coaching, reflecting his multifaceted approach to professional and personal growth. His guiding principle is simple: “Leadership is about service—empowering others to achieve greatness while creating a lasting impact.”
Character:
John is a mission-driven leader who operates with integrity, discipline, and a deep commitment to service. His career has been defined by ethical leadership, resilience, and a passion for creating meaningful change.
Knowledge:
With expertise spanning national security, strategic communication, and organizational leadership, John brings a depth of understanding that enables data-driven decision-making and impactful solutions.
Strategic:
John excels at navigating complex challenges, whether in military operations, corporate governance, or nonprofit leadership. His ability to align organizational priorities with long-term objectives makes him a valuable asset to any board or advisory role.
Communication:
As a skilled communicator, public speaker, and strategic advisor, John has the ability to translate complex ideas into actionable insights, ensuring alignment across diverse stakeholders, leadership teams, and global partners.
