
In Conversation with General David Petraeus: Navigating the Geopolitical Terrain
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NACD Texas TriCities
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Email:
programs@texastricities.nacdonline.org
Phone:
346-250-2802
Jenn Cox
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Mya Risner
Marketing & Engagement Manager
Chennya Lister
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About The Event
In Person | Sept 23, 2024 | 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM CDT | Houston, TX
General David Petraeus, in conversation with business and board leaders, discussed his post-government career, global geopolitical risks, leadership principles, and the critical role of strategic judgment in both military and corporate contexts. He emphasized the changing geopolitical landscape, notably U.S.-China tensions, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and the complexities of Middle East conflicts. The conversation also touched on board governance, private equity growth, innovation in U.S. industries, and the enduring strength of American institutions and talent.
Key Topics Covered
- Strategic Leadership & Board Governance: The four key responsibilities of strategic leaders—getting the big ideas right, communicating them, implementing them, and constantly refining them.
- Geopolitical Risk in Investment: How the global shift from benign globalization to great power competition impacts capital deployment and risk analysis in private equity.
- Global Conflict & Power Dynamics: The interconnected implications of U.S.-China relations, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and escalating conflict in the Middle East—and how they affect global stability, security alliances, and economic policy.
- Alliances & Global Security: Why coalitions, despite their complications, remain essential in military, political, and economic strategy.
- Innovation & U.S. Resilience: America’s unique ability to foster innovation, exemplified by the energy revolution and the startup ecosystem, and how this underpins optimism for the future.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Judgment Is Core to Leadership: Whether in boardrooms or battlefields, the most important trait in a leader is the ability to make sound strategic decisions.
- Geopolitical Risk Is a Business Imperative: Global instability must be factored into board-level strategy, particularly in light of the U.S.-China rivalry, the war in Ukraine, and Middle East volatility.
- Allies Are Indispensable: Despite their challenges, international partnerships are crucial for effective military, political, and economic outcomes.
- Innovation Defines America’s Strength: The U.S. leads in innovation due to its institutions, legal framework, talent, and entrepreneurial culture.
- Energy Independence Transforms Power: The U.S. energy revolution, enabled by technology and infrastructure, has reshaped global power dynamics and economic resilience.
- Optimism Lies in People & Systems: Despite global and domestic challenges, America’s talent, institutions, and values offer strong reasons for confidence in the future.
Keynote Speaker
Moderator
Program Resources
NACD Texas TriCities
Contact Us
Email:
programs@texastricities.nacdonline.org
Phone:
346-250-2802
Jenn Cox
Executive Director
Mya Risner
Marketing & Engagement Manager
Chennya Lister
Chapter Administrator
Find a Chapter