General (Ret.) Kenneth F. “Frank” McKenzie, Jr. is a retired four-star U.S. Marine Corps general who served as the 14th Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) from 2019-2022. In this role, he oversaw U.S. military operations across the Middle East during a period of significant geopolitical change, directing global counterterrorism operations, managing regional security challenges involving Iran and violent extremist organizations, and leading the complex withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan. During his distinguished Marine Corps career, General McKenzie held senior strategic roles including Director of the Joint Staff and Director of Strategic Plans and Policy (J-5). He is widely recognized for his leadership in crisis environments and his deep expertise in military strategy, international security, and decision-making under pressure.

General McKenzie currently serves as Executive Director of the Global and National Security Institute and Cyber Florida at the University of South Florida. He has been named the 21st President of The Citadel, his alma mater, beginning in July 2026. A sought-after speaker and author of The Melting Point: High Command and War in the 21st Century, General McKenzie provides audiences with insights on global risk, leadership, and the evolving character of modern conflict.