Lance Varney is a seasoned executive leader with over 35 years of experience in multinational operations, strategic planning, and organizational transformation. A retired U.S. Army Colonel, he has successfully led high-stakes initiatives across diverse environments, from combat zones to multinational collaborations, always ensuring mission success through visionary leadership and operational excellence. Throughout his career, he has managed large-scale organizations, overseen complex strategic initiatives, and played a pivotal role in shaping global defense strategies.

As Deputy Commander for Operations at U.S. Army South (ARSOUTH), Lance provided executive oversight for U.S. Army operations across Central and South America, ensuring strategic alignment with national security objectives. Managing over $500 million in budgetary resources, he directed operational readiness, crisis response, and security cooperation initiatives, including a highly successful humanitarian response to the 2024 Haitian crisis. His expertise in crisis management and multinational collaboration has strengthened U.S. partnerships across 37 security assistance operations, reinforcing stability in critical regions.

Prior to his role at ARSOUTH, Lance served as an Executive Coordinator and Senior Consultant at NATO Defense College, where he advised senior leaders on strategic policy, operational planning, and multinational security initiatives. His contributions in NATO leadership forums facilitated long-range planning processes and operational improvements, reducing inefficiencies by 35% while fostering an integrated multinational approach to security cooperation. His ability to bridge diverse cultural perspectives and drive consensus has made him a sought-after advisor in international military and security affairs.

Lance’s leadership journey has encompassed command roles at multiple echelons, including as Commander of 3rd Squadron, 7th U.S. Cavalry, where he led an armored cavalry squadron through combat operations in Afghanistan. Under his leadership, his unit successfully safeguarded key distribution networks across three provinces, ensuring regional security and seamless transitions of governance structures. His combat-tested decision-making abilities and operational acumen have positioned him as a leading expert in defense strategy, counterterrorism, and risk management.

Beyond military command, Lance has excelled in organizational transformation and workforce development. As City Manager and Commanding Officer at U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, he managed operations for a 42,000-person military community across five locations, overseeing infrastructure, personnel management, and financial resources exceeding $300 million. His ability to optimize budgets, implement cost-saving measures, and enhance workforce engagement resulted in a 70% improvement in employee satisfaction and a 45% reduction in overtime costs. His strategic mindset and leadership effectiveness have been instrumental in reshaping organizations for sustained growth and operational excellence.

His academic background further complements his executive leadership capabilities. Lance holds a Master of Science in Strategic Planning from the U.S. Army War College, where he graduated as a Distinguished Graduate, and a Master’s in Advanced Military Studies from the School of Advanced Military Studies. His Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication from Arkansas State University, combined with certifications in Lean Six Sigma (LSSGB) and the Maxwell Leadership Team, reflects his commitment to leadership development, process optimization, and effective communication.

A Maxwell Certified Leadership Team Member, Lance is passionate about mentorship, coaching, and public speaking. His expertise in leadership development has empowered countless military and civilian professionals, helping them refine their strategic thinking and leadership approaches. His dedication to developing the next generation of leaders aligns with his personal mission of adding value and inspiring others to achieve their fullest potential.

Fluent in English and professionally proficient in French, Lance has worked extensively in Italy, Germany, France, Turkey, and Korea, navigating diverse cultural and geopolitical landscapes with finesse. His ability to collaborate with international partners, facilitate diplomatic engagements, and drive multinational security initiatives underscores his global strategic perspective.

Lance’s professional accolades include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (three Oak Leaf Clusters), and the French National Defense Medal. These honors reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence, service, and national security. His dedication to ethical leadership, mission-focused execution, and continuous improvement has left a lasting impact on global defense strategy and military innovation.

Currently, Lance is exploring board, executive leadership, and advisory roles where his strategic expertise, crisis management capabilities, and leadership development acumen can contribute to organizational success and long-term sustainability. He is eager to collaborate with companies, nonprofits, and defense organizations that align with his values of excellence, service, and innovation.

Character:

Lance Varney is a leader who embodies integrity, resilience, and ethical decision-making, ensuring that trust and accountability remain at the core of his leadership. His unwavering commitment to service and mission success has earned him recognition as a dependable and principled executive.

Knowledge:

With extensive expertise in strategic planning, risk management, and multinational operations, Lance has successfully navigated complex challenges across global defense and security landscapes. His deep understanding of organizational transformation and crisis response positions him as a valuable asset in high-level decision-making.

Strategic:

Lance excels in developing and executing long-term strategies that optimize resources, improve operational efficiency, and enhance organizational resilience. His ability to align mission objectives with actionable plans has led to measurable success in both military and civilian leadership roles.

Communication:

As an experienced public speaker, mentor, and international collaborator, Lance effectively influences stakeholders and fosters consensus in complex, high-stakes environments. His skill in translating strategic vision into clear, actionable goals has been instrumental in driving mission success across diverse teams and organizations.