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Former CIA Director & security expert

George Tenet

Navigate complex security challenges with George Tenet, speaker and former CIA Director. George works with organizations to enhance crisis leadership, intelligence strategy, and national security expertise, delivering insights from directing America's intelligence operations during 9/11 and Iraq War.

Trusted by Central Intelligence Agency, National Security Council

George Tenet
George Tenet

George Tenet

Richmond, United States

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George Tenet

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Richmond, United States

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George Tenet's biography

At a glance

  • Director of Central Intelligence for seven years
  • Oversaw CIA during September 11 attacks
  • Author of memoir on CIA tenure

George Tenet is a American intelligence official who served as the Director of Central Intelligence from 1997 to 2004, a period marked by pivotal events in U.S. history. His leadership of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) during this time placed him at the forefront of national security challenges, including the September 11 attacks and the Iraq War. Tenet's insights into these critical moments offer a unique perspective on the complexities of global security and intelligence operations. Born to Greek immigrant parents in Queens, New York, George's early life was shaped by his family's diner business, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for hard work and perseverance. He pursued his academic interests at Georgetown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service, followed by a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University. These academic achievements laid the foundation for his career in public service and national security. George's professional journey began on Capitol Hill, where he focused on national security issues, eventually transitioning to the National Security Council. His expertise and dedication led him to the CIA in 1995 as the Deputy Director, and just two years later, he was appointed as the Director by President Bill Clinton. He continued to serve under President George W. Bush, navigating the agency through some of the most challenging periods in recent history. In 2007, George published his memoir, "At the Center of the Storm: My Years at the CIA," offering a detailed account of his experiences and the decisions made during his tenure. His story is one of resilience and commitment to public service, providing valuable lessons on leadership and the intricacies of intelligence work. George Tenet's contributions to national security and his firsthand experiences make him a compelling figure in the field of intelligence and global affairs.

Topics, sessions and talks

Notes From The CIA

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Why we recommend booking George

Book George Tenet for unparalleled insights into intelligence, leadership, and crisis management, drawn from his pivotal role as CIA Director during 9/11 and the Iraq War. His unique experiences offer valuable lessons for navigating complex challenges.

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Trusted by Central Intelligence Agency, National Security Council

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book George Tenet for my next event?

Email george.tenet@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm George's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is George Tenet's speaking style like?

George Tenet draws on his firsthand experience as Director of Central Intelligence to walk audiences through the decision-making processes behind major national security events, including the September 11 attacks and the lead-up to the Iraq War. He structures his sessions around his memoir, At the Center of the Storm: My Years at the CIA, using it as a framework to illustrate the realities of intelligence work and leadership under pressure.

What topics does George Tenet specialise in?

George Tenet speaks on intelligence operations, national security decision-making, and crisis leadership during pivotal moments in U.S. history. He served as Director of Central Intelligence from 1997 to 2004, leading the CIA through the September 11 attacks and the Iraq War, and later documented his tenure in his memoir At the Center of the Storm: My Years at the CIA.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

No. PepTalk adds no booking fee, so you pay the speaker's fee and nothing beyond it. The service, from shortlist through to contracts and event-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, PepTalk can agree preferential rates with your procurement team.

What happens after I send a brief?

Share your event date, audience, format, objectives and budget, and PepTalk sends a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours. Each suggestion comes with a profile, a fee and a recommendation on the strongest fit. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, travel and logistics through to event day.

What does the typical fee range mean?

The typical fee range is the speaker's standard in-person fee in their home market, shown in their local currency. It moves with format, location, date and session length: virtual sessions and shorter slots usually cost less, while international travel and peak dates cost more. Send your brief to PepTalk and the team will confirm the exact fee in your currency.

Have all the speakers on the website worked with PepTalk before?

Not all of them, and it makes no difference to your booking. PepTalk's network of 15,000+ speakers covers talent the team works with directly alongside speakers represented by agents and agencies worldwide. PepTalk approaches the speaker, negotiates the fee and handles contracting either way.

How far in advance should I book a speaker?

Three to six months ahead is comfortable for most events, and 12 months is better for large conferences, peak-season dates or one specific in-demand speaker. Shorter timelines are workable, and PepTalk regularly fills last-minute and replacement bookings within days. Availability is the constraint, so get in touch as soon as you have a date.