LENOIR CITY, Tenn., Jan. 29, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Sterling Global Operations (SGO) has named Ambassador (retired) David T. Johnson as Vice President for Strategic Development and Washington Operations.

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Ambassador Johnson joins Sterling Global Operations after a career in which he held security and diplomatic positions at some of the U.S. government's highest levels. His service includes assignments as U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Security Cooperation in Europe (OSCE); Charge d' Affaires at America's flagship Embassy in London; White House National Security Council spokesman; U.S. Afghanistan Coordinator; and most recently as Assistant Secretary of State for international anti-crime programs in more than 80 countries.

"We're delighted to welcome Ambassador David Johnson to SGO's executive team as our head of strategic development and Washington operations," said Alan Weakley, SGO president and chief operations officer. "David's unique understanding of the international landscape and his experience running large and complex organizations will enhance the counsel and services we are able to provide to our customers around the world.

"His depth of experience in diplomacy, intelligence and security issues, economic matters, global crisis management, and leadership is matched by few people in our country," Weakley added. "He will be an exceptional asset in knowledge, ability and experience for our clients and our staff."

Ambassador Johnson will lead Sterling Global Operations' efforts to support current customers and to develop strategic business opportunities. He will also head Sterling's Washington office, located in Reston, Virginia.

"I'm excited to join the exceptional men and women of Sterling Global Operations," said Johnson. "Sterling Global Operations makes the world a safer place and helps its customers to succeed in some of the world's most challenging environments. I'm proud to be part of what this company is accomplishing."

Johnson has been a member of Sterling's board of advisors since 2011. He is a Georgia native. He and his wife, Scarlett Swan, have three children.

About Sterling Global Operations:

Sterling Global Operations is an employee-owned stability operations company employing approximately 3,500 professionals worldwide. The company is headquartered in Lenoir City, Tennessee and serves customers with munitions response; intelligence support; logistics; security operations and other services in some of the world's most austere and hostile environments. The company's website is www.sterlinggo.com.

SOURCE Sterling Global Operations