In Conversation with General David Petraeus: Navigating the Geopolitical Terrain

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

Partner, KKR; Chair, KKR Global Institute; Director, Optiv and OneStream

General David H. Petraeus

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General David H. Petraeus (US Army, ret.) is a partner in the global investment firm KKR and chair of the KKR Global Institute, which he established in mid-2013. He is also a member of the boards of Optiv and OneStream, a strategic advisor for Semperis, and the chair of the international advisory board for Advanced Navigation. In addition, he is a personal venture investor, engaged in various academic endeavors...

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Moderator

Director, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, American Arbitration Association, Asia Society -Texas Center

Alan Crain

Alan has advised Fortune 500 multinationals in legal and business matters throughout the world for more than 35 years. He currently serves on the boards of directors of non-profit and commercial organizations, including multibillion dollar NYSE-listed companies and private companies...

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Program Resources

• Global Risks Are Intensifying: Here Is What Boards Should Know

• A Guide for Corporate Directors: Geostrategy & Political Risk
• Global Risks Report 2024