Industry veteran William Tenney named ASIS International CEO

ALEXANDRIA, Va.—ASIS International has announced the appointment of William “Bill” Tenney as its new chief executive officer, effective July 1, 2024.

Tenney brings close to 35 years of security leadership experience from both public and private sectors to his new role heading the acclaimed global security association. 

As ASIS International’s CEO, Tenney will spearhead the organization's strategic vision, working closely with members, partners, and stakeholders to advance the mission of fostering excellence in the security profession worldwide. With a commitment to collaboration, and continuous improvement, he is poised to lead ASIS International into a new era of growth and impact, the association said.

"We are thrilled to welcome William Tenney as the next CEO to guide ASIS in our mission to support security practitioners across all disciplines," said Cy A. Oatridge, CPP, 2024 president, ASIS International. "His diverse background spanning national security and global corporate security makes him exceptionally qualified to lead our organization and advance our strategic priorities." 

Oatridge added, “The successful completion of our chief executive search was made possible by our partner, Spencer Stuart, one of the world's leading global executive search and leadership consulting firms, along with our CEO Search Committee led by 2023 ASIS President Tim McCreight, CPP.”  

Tenney joins ASIS after serving as chief security officer and senior vice president, global corporate security for MetLife, head of global operations risk for Bloomberg, and director of global security at Target Corp. Previously, he served in the national security community as a civilian and for eight years as a U.S. Naval Officer. 

“After an extensive global search, we are confident Bill is the ideal leader to guide ASIS International into its next chapter of growth and success," McCreight said. "With his proven track record of strategic leadership and deep expertise within the security profession, Bill has the vision and capabilities to provide the highest level of business continuity while propelling our organization to new heights. His appointment reinforces our commitment to operational excellence and positions us to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the ever-evolving security landscape." 

Tenney succeeds Peter O’Neil, FASAE, CAE, who has served with distinction during his tenure 2016-2024. He will become the eighth executive to lead this organization in its nearly seven-decade existence.  

"I am truly honored and excited to assume the role of CEO for this prestigious global security association with more than 34,000 members representing more than 150 nations worldwide," Tenney stated. "ASIS International plays a pivotal role in advancing the security profession and addressing the complex challenges facing our increasingly interconnected world. I look forward to collaborating closely with our diverse membership, volunteer leaders, and staff to drive innovation, share best practices, and elevate the critical importance of effective security strategies across all sectors and regions. Together, we will continue building a safer and more resilient future on a global scale. I am committed to strengthening our association's position as the preeminent authority and go-to resource for security management professionals everywhere."

A graduate of St. Olaf College and Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, Tenney has completed executive education from Harvard, Northwestern, and MIT. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Veterans Defense Project and advisor to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. 

For more information visit www.asisonline.org.