David Petraeus Age and Biographical Facts
David Petraeus was born on November 7, 1952, making his current age 72 years old as of the latest public records. He was raised in Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York, and graduated from West Point in 1974, beginning a career in the United States Army that spanned more than three decades. His service included command roles in the 101st Airborne Division and the Multi-National Force – Iraq, where he oversaw the surge strategy from 2007 to 2008. He later became Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, holding that position from September 2011 until his resignation in November 2012. His age and time in uniform are frequently cited in profiles that discuss his transition from active duty to private-sector and advisory roles.
After leaving the CIA, Petraeus joined the faculty at Yale University and later became a partner at the investment firm KKR, where he focused on global policy and risk advisory. He also serves on multiple corporate and nonprofit boards, including positions linked to technology and infrastructure companies operating in sectors such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. His post-government career reflects a pattern common among former senior national security officials who move into private-sector governance and strategic advisory functions.
Career Timeline and Key Positions
Petraeus commanded the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) during the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003, and later served as Commanding General of Multi-National Corps – Iraq from February 2005 to February 2007. He was appointed Commander of United States Central Command in 2008, overseeing military operations across the Middle East and Central Asia. In April 2011, President Barack Obama nominated him to lead the CIA, and he was confirmed by the Senate that same month.
His resignation from the CIA in November 2012 followed a security breach investigation related to the handling of classified materials. After stepping down, he returned to academic work at Yale and later entered the private sector, joining KKR in 2013 as a partner and chairman of its newly created Global Institute. He has also held advisory roles with financial institutions and defense contractors, and his career timeline is frequently referenced in analyses of the revolving door between senior government posts and the private sector.
Current Roles and Public Profile
As of the most recent public disclosures, Petraeus remains active in advisory and board capacities. He has served on the board of directors for companies in the cybersecurity and data analytics space, and he continues to publish commentary on geopolitics, technology, and national security through major media outlets and policy forums. His public appearances often focus on the intersection of artificial intelligence, defense technology, and global competition.
His age and experience are regularly cited in media coverage when he is quoted on topics such as great-power competition, counterterrorism, and the impact of emerging technologies on military operations. He has also been involved in initiatives connecting the defense and venture capital ecosystems, including programs that connect former military leaders with startups and investors. For further details on his post-government career and board memberships, you can refer to coverage from Forbes and official disclosures from companies where he serves as a director.