For nearly a quarter of a century, John Gannon has excelled in the toughest analytical jobs the U.S. Intelligence Community has to offer. His forthcoming departure to join the private sector, therefore, is a loss to all of us who have benefited from his ability to produce clear, crisp, well-reasoned and insightful analysis on some of the most critical issues facing our nation.

The National Intelligence Council (NIC), under John’s leadership during the past four years, has broken new ground in reaching out to the finest minds–in and out of government–to produce for policymakers the most authoritative written judgments on key national security issues. The highly acclaimed “Global Trends 2015” report is just one example of the remarkable work that the NIC has produced under his tenure.

A tireless advocate for the role of intelligence and an enthusiastic proponent for greater public policy debate, John has been a powerful voice on behalf of the Intelligence Community.

We will miss his sharp analysis, strong leadership, infectious good humor and most of all his friendship. We wish him all the best in his new endeavors.