The Samuel Group is proud to welcome Vice Admiral John B. Nowell, Jr., USN (Ret.) as Senior Naval Associate at our Washington, D.C. office. A distinguished leader with more than 35 years of service in the United States Navy, Admiral Nowell brings deep operational expertise, strategic insight, and a proven record of leadership in naval affairs, personnel management, and global maritime strategy. His appointment reflects our continued commitment to strengthening U.S. defense and national security engagement through seasoned, mission-driven leadership.
Admiral Nowell concluded a distinguished naval career in 2022. He served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets of the US Navy, as well as with forward-deployed naval forces in Europe and the Western Pacific. He commanded the USS Porter and Destroyer Squadron 60/Task Force 65. Additionally, he held the position of Maritime Force Commander for Joint Task Force Lebanon. Furthermore, he served as Commander of Task Force West and Central Africa and led the inaugural Africa Partnership Station deployment.
Admiral Nowell held key staff positions with the Chief of Naval Operations and the Joint Staff, shaping the Navy’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense Programs. He also served as the Director of the Navy’s Senate Liaison Office. As a flag officer, he served as Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy, Resources, and Plans (N5/8) for U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, and he led Navy Personnel Command as Director of Military Personnel Plans and Policy.
He concluded his career as the 59th Chief of Naval Personnel and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, overseeing 26,000 personnel and managing 400,000 Navy professionals.
Admiral Nowell’s personal decorations include two Navy Distinguished Service Medals, six Legions of Merit, and a Bronze Star. He was also honoured with the 2021 Association of Naval Services Officers Legacy in Leadership and Vision Award. Among his numerous accolades, Admiral Nowell takes greatest pride in being named an Honorary Chief Petty Officer in 1999 while serving as Executive Officer aboard the USS The Sullivans (DDG 68).
In June 2024, he took on the role of President and CEO of the U.S. Navy Memorial, leading its mission to honour the men and women of the Sea Services and preserve their rich heritage.
He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering and earned a Master of Science in Weapons Systems Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School.
As a Senior Naval Associate at the Samuel Group’s Washington, D.C. office, Vice Admiral John Nowell will utilize his leadership, command, and staff experience to advise clients on U.S. Navy and Coast Guard procurement, R&D funding programs, and defense industrial base relations.
He will provide strategic guidance on the U.S. shipbuilding industry, offer insights into emerging marine technologies—including autonomous systems and dual-use technologies—and facilitate industry partnerships.
We welcome Admiral Nowell to the Samuel Defense Team!
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