Christopher Colbow

About Christopher Colbow

GS-15 civil servant with 25+ years of service across military and federal sectors, I have proven success in strategic planning, decision-making, and policy implementation. My experience includes guiding high-level teams, advising senior officials, and delivering results in complex, fast-paced environments.In my current role as Division Chief, Information and Records Division at USAID, I oversee 60+ staff and serve as the Agency Records Officer, FOIA Liaison, and Privacy Disclosure Officer. I excel at building operational frameworks that enhance performance, transparency, and collaboration. During my Senior Executive Service detail as Deputy Director, Office of Management Services, I managed five divisions responsible for facilities management, FOIA, records oversight, and operational readiness—further honing my ability to unite cross-functional teams under a common mission.My military background as a retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Lieutenant Colonel (Intelligence Officer) and combat veteran has instilled in me a strong sense of leadership and adaptability. I have engaged in joint military planning, interagency operations, and WMD analysis, culminating in an active TS/SCI clearance with CI polygraph. These experiences sharpened my ability to navigate high-stakes, globally focused challenges while fostering interdepartmental cooperation.Key Qualifications-Strategic Planning & Leadership: Directed complex programs, including oversight of FOIA and records initiatives for USAID, ensuring legal compliance and efficient processes-Interagency Coordination: Collaborated with DHS, State Department, and USTRANSCOM, aligning stakeholders to deliver mission-critical objectives-International & Intelligence Expertise: Managed countering violent extremism initiatives, foreign internal defense advising, and gender-based violence programs-TS/SCI Clearance & Spanish Proficiency: Able to operate effectively in secure and multinational contexts, offering broad strategic insights.I am eager to contribute these skills to support your organization’s goals. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to discussing how my background may serve your team.Christopher Allen ColbowM.P.P.(National Security Focus), George Mason UniversityB.A. International Relations, Virginia Military InstituteFederal Executive Institute & MIT Seminar XXI | NARA Certified Records Manager

Experience

1. Agency Records Officer, Foia Public Liaison, Vetting Lead

   USAID

   Sep 2025 — Present · DC, US

   Manage final disposition of USAID records, FOIA requests, and vetting actions associated with terminated awards during shutdown of USAID.

Education

• Virginia Military Institute

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, International Relations and Affairs

• George Mason University

  Master of Public Policy, National Security Policy Studies