Frank Rose

President, Chevalier Strategic Advisors

Frank Rose is a highly respected U.S. expert in space policy, arms control, missile defense, and international security. Over his 30-year career, he has built lasting relationships with defense and foreign ministries worldwide, solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost dealmakers in these critical areas. His work as the U.S. chief negotiator for missile defense assets placed in various foreign nations has been widely praised, demonstrating his collaborative approach and earning the trust of international leaders. His diplomatic contributions have been recognized with multiple honors from foreign governments, acknowledging his vital role in global security.

Mr. Rose's career reflects his deep expertise and strategic insight, which have enabled him to navigate complex security challenges on the global stage. Today, he applies this wealth of experience to support his business clients as the founder of Chevalier Strategic Advisors, a consultancy firm based in Alexandria, Virginia.

President of Chevalier Strategic Advisors

In 2024, Mr. Rose founded Chevalier Strategic Advisors, a consultancy firm specializing in defense and national security transactions, political risk management, and high-level geopolitical strategy. Under his leadership, the firm facilitates critical business negotiations and strategic alliances between private clients and U.S. and foreign governments. He provides tailored, forward-looking guidance, helping clients navigate the complexities of global security and defense landscapes with a keen understanding of political risks.

His firm is key in helping clients align with shifting global security dynamics, ensuring they can adapt and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The firm’s strategic advice reflects Mr. Rose’s decades of experience at the forefront of U.S. defense and foreign policy, making it an indispensable partner for businesses operating in sensitive international environments.

Principal Deputy Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration (2021-2024)

Before founding Chevalier Strategic Advisors, Mr. Rose held the pivotal position of Principal Deputy Administrator at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) from 2021 to 2024. In this role, he co-led an agency of 60,000 personnel and oversaw a $24 billion budget. His responsibilities included managing the U.S. nuclear arsenal, advancing global nuclear threat reduction, enhancing outer space security, improving cyber defense capabilities, and developing atomic propulsion technologies for the U.S. Navy.

Mr. Rose’s leadership was instrumental in maintaining the nation’s nuclear security, particularly in response to evolving global threats. His ability to coordinate with key national laboratories, including Lawrence Livermore, Los Alamos, and Sandia, on technical, policy, and administrative issues further highlighted his deep understanding of national security matters. His tenure at the NNSA demonstrated his capability to lead in high-stakes environments, safeguarding U.S. national security against immediate and long-term risks.

Senior Fellow, The Brookings Institution

From 2018 to 2021, Mr. Rose served as a Senior Fellow and Co-Director of the Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology at the Brookings Institution, a prestigious think tank based in Washington, D.C. There, he focused on issues such as nuclear strategy, arms control, missile defense, and emerging security threats. His strategic stability and outer space security expertise made him a thought leader, significantly shaping U.S. defense policy during this period.

In addition to his role at Brookings, Mr. Rose was an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Georgetown University, where he taught a graduate-level course titled "Outer Space, Strategic Technologies, and the Future of International Security." This course examined the role of outer space and other strategic technologies, such as cyber, nuclear, and missile defense, in shaping the international security environment.

Principal Director and Chief of Government Relations at The Aerospace Corporation

In 2017, Mr. Rose took on the Principal Director and Chief of Government Relations role at The Aerospace Corporation, a leader in research and development for national security space initiatives. During this period, he played a critical role in navigating the complexities of national security space policy at a time of significant transformation in defense technology. His work involved advising on issues related to space security and missile defense, further consolidating his reputation as an expert in defense policy.

Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau for Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance (2014-2017)

From 2014 to 2017, Mr. Rose served as the Assistant Secretary of State for Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance. In this role, he advised the U.S. Secretary of State on arms control and strategic policy issues, playing a key role in shaping the U.S. arms control strategy at a critical point in global security history. His work involved extensive international travel, where he met with senior leaders across military, political, and foreign ministries in many countries.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Space and Defense Policy (2009-2014)

From 2009 to 2014, Mr. Rose was Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Space and Defense Policy, focusing on missile defense, space security, and conventional arms control. He was the principal U.S. negotiator for agreements involving U.S. missile defense assets in foreign countries, contributing to major international defense agreements and strengthening U.S. defense relations worldwide.

During this time, Mr. Rose was also responsible for advancing missile defense cooperation with NATO and engaging in critical dialogues on space security with countries including Japan, Australia, India, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom.

Earlier Career and Congressional Service

Mr. Rose’s career in national security began in various roles, including significant positions within the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served on the Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. He also worked within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, advising on arms control and international security policy. His early career included roles at Science Applications International Corporation and as a U.S. Senator John F. Kerry staff member, where he began to develop his defense and foreign policy expertise.

Distinguished Service and Awards

Mr. Rose’s exceptional service has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. These include the Department of Defense Exceptional Public Service Award, the State Department Superior Honor Award, and the Department of Energy/NNSA Distinguished Career Award, received in 2024. In 2014, Romania honored him with the Ordinul National Serviciul Credincios (Knight) for his instrumental role in negotiating the missile defense basing agreement with Romania.

Education

Mr. Rose holds a bachelor’s degree in history from American University (1994) and a master’s degree in war studies from King’s College, University of London (1999). His academic background and extensive practical experience have provided him with a solid foundation for his work in strategic policy and defense consulting.

Frank Rose's career in Boston, Massachusetts, is a testament to his dedication to global security, strategic leadership, and the development of lasting international partnerships. Today, he continues contributing to the field by advising clients on navigating the increasingly complex and interconnected security environment.