Louis Freeh

Mayor Rudolph Giuliani called Louis Freeh “the singularly best-suited person in America to run the FBI.” In his eight years as Director, Freeh dramatically changed the bureau’s mission at a time when crime, like so many other things, was becoming globalized. He more than doubled the number of FBI branches around the world and focused on counterintelligence and cybercrime, as well as DNA technology and state-of-the-art electronic surveillance. He also recognized the importance of building relationships with the private sector to tap cutting-edge scientific and technical expertise.

Freeh was appointed FBI Director by President Clinton, who called him “a law enforcement legend,” and won praise from President George W. Bush. Freeh has been an FBI agent, a U.S. Attorney, and a federal judge appointed by the senior President Bush. Freeh’s term at the FBI was not without its controversies; nevertheless, he had strong support from the agents in the field and fostered unprecedented cooperation with the Central Intelligence Agency. He has been recognized for transforming the FBI from a national law enforcement agency to a global institution. Throughout his law enforcement career, Freeh has been known for his energy, integrity and independence. During his tenure as FBI Director, he visited 62 countries and met with over 2,000 foreign government leaders.

At the podium, Freeh brings together his experiences in high-profile criminal cases and in redefining the FBI to deliver compelling advice for confronting the complex security and privacy issues facing the world today, as well as for leading complex operations. He also explains how strategic public/private partnerships can benefit both business and government.

Freeh was appointed FBI Director in 1993. He began his career in law enforcement as an FBI Special Agent, serving in New York City and at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. He held various positions in the New York City U.S. Attorney’s Office including Deputy United States Attorney. He was a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of New York.

Throughout his career, Freeh has been recognized for his exemplary accomplishments, including landmark investigations and prosecutions, such as the Pizza Connection and VANPAC cases. In 1987 and 1991 he received the Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Rutgers College, Freeh also received a J.D. from Rutgers Law School and an LL.M. in criminal law from New York University Law School. Freeh also served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army JAG Corps Reserve.

Freeh now serves as Senior Vice Chairman for Administration at MBNA Corporation, the largest independent credit card lender in the world. He oversees the company’s legal affairs and also is responsible for all personnel, facilities, security and transportation functions.