Mark Sullivan was a Federal Law Enforcement Agent for nearly 35 years. Prior to becoming a founding partner at Global Security and Intelligence Strategies (GSIS), Sullivan was the Director of the United States Secret Service (USSS) beginning as an entry-level field agent and ultimately serving in a variety of leadership roles in the organization for nearly 30 years. He led high-impact initiatives in criminal investigations and protective operations, strategic planning, threat assessment and risk management, human capital management, technology deployment, IT modernization, and budget development and execution.
As Director, he managed 7,000 Special Agents, Uniformed Division Officers, and Administrative, Professional and Technical staff members and oversaw an annual budget of nearly $1.7 billion. During his tenure at the USSS, he was responsible for the protection of the President, Vice President, former Presidents, and their families, other government leaders, and visiting heads of state.
Additionally, Sullivan was responsible for the security of three Presidential Campaigns, 22 National Special Security Events, and 10 United Nation General Assemblies. He also oversaw the investigative mission in the areas of cyber, financial crimes, and fraud. Prior to becoming a Secret Service Special Agent, Sullivan was a Special Agent with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Inspector General for Investigations.
His leadership and professional integrity at the Secret Service were recognized by numerous awards including two Distinguished Presidential Rank Awards, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary’s Award, and the Department’s Gold Medal for Distinguished Service.
Sullivan has consulted on a variety of domestic and international security issues including financial and intellectual property investigations, business due diligence, major event planning, security vulnerability assessments for sports venues, buildings, facilities, and critical infrastructure, risk management consultation, security training, and executive protection. Sullivan also chaired a panel of security experts, convened by the US Department of State, which was charged with identifying best security practices when operating in high-threat areas.
He is a graduate of St. Anselm College, Manchester, NH, and is a guest lecturer at the John F. Kennedy School of Public Health.