Major General John Holmes CME MC
Expert
Former British Army Major General with over 30 years of service in UK Special Forces, including the SAS. He held every principal commissioned appointment from Troop Commander to Director Special Forces.
John led operations in Northern Ireland, Iraq, and Sierra Leone, receiving the Military Cross (MC), Distinguished Service Order (DSO), and OBE for gallantry and leadership. His career combined operational command, strategic oversight, and international liaison at the highest levels of defence.
Expert Role
John advises on special operations, counter-terrorism strategy, and national security leadership at the highest strategic level.
Professional Background
During his military career, John served two years in Washington, D.C. as Special Forces Liaison Officer, strengthening UK–US special operations coordination and intelligence collaboration.
As Director Special Forces, he oversaw strategic planning and execution of UK Special Forces operations across multiple theatres. His experience spans irregular warfare, counter-terrorism integration, and multinational operational coordination.
Following retirement from military service, he supported the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq, where he established and structured a 15,000-strong strategic Oil Protection Force.
He has also advised UK policing authorities on the integration of counter-terrorism capabilities and inter-agency coordination.
John currently serves on the boards of several intelligence and security organisations, including SAFA–HOLMES, a consultancy operating in high-complexity emerging markets.
Key Expertise:
Special Operations & Strategic Command
Counter-Terrorism & Irregular Warfare
National Security Strategy & International Liaison