John Brennan Appointed Deputy National Security Adviser for Homeland Security

President-elect Barack Obama has announced that John Brennan will serve as White House homeland security adviser and deputy national security adviser for counterterrorism. “¨ A 25-year veteran of the CIA, Brennan transitioned in recent years to the private sector, where he has worked as president of The Analysis Corporation (TAC). His pick as head homeland security adviser and national security adviser for counterterrorism comes as welcome news to many in the national security and counterterrorism community. Here’s a roundup of what several industry leaders are telling ExecutiveBiz:

Joe Doherty, EVP/Group President, ACS Government Solutions: “Brennan“™s private-sector and longtime CIA experience make him uniquely qualified to counsel the president. In addition, his view from the outside, combined with the structure of the appointment … will give Mr. Obama a well-rounded understanding of the realities and role that private contractors play in counterterrorism efforts.“

Tom Grissen, CEO, Daon: “John“™s selection represents the exact profile of a candidate who comes from a well managed presidential transition process.   He is regarded as an enormously competent, unassuming, patriotic, unsung hero.  The time he spent in the public and private sector allows him to tap into a vital source of innovative ideas that will favorably impact government policies.“

John Hillen, CEO, Global Strategies Group (North America) Inc: “We are thrilled that John Brennan’s work at GLOBAL TAC in building a formidable homeland security and intelligence partner for the US government has been recognized, along with his distinguished government career, as making him eminently suited for this key role in the administration.“

Bill Hoover President & CEO, AMERICAN SYSTEMS: “In the times I’ve met John Brennan, I’ve been impressed by the breadth and depth of his knowledge and understanding of our nation“™s vital national intelligence mission. His experience as a national intelligence professional and CEO of a company that supports the national intelligence mission bodes well for both our nation and our industry, which is committed to supporting that mission.“

Hollis Helms, CEO and founder of Abraxas Corporation: “John“™s private sector experience will enable him to bring fresh perspective to U.S. counterterrorism policy. The changing nature of the terrorist threat and the country“™s current  economic crisis will require future managers of our national security programs to adjust their organizations not only to new budgetary realities but to emerging international threats made all the more likely by global economic instability.  John“™s position puts him in a position to play the critical policy level role against those threats.  I cannot think of a more qualified person for that position.  It should make people sleep a little bit better at night.”