September 25, 2025 — WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Chertoff Group, a global security and growth advisory firm, is pleased to announce the addition of three experts to its team of senior advisors. James Smith, Mark Koumans and Phil Horvitz bring diverse experience to further enhance the firm’s capabilities.
“We are delighted to welcome Jim, Mark and Phil to our team of senior advisors,” said Chertoff Group CEO and Co-Founder Chad Sweet. “Each of them brings unique perspectives and proven leadership capabilities that will be a tremendous asset to our clients.”
James Smith brings over 20 years of executive experience from the FBI, where he held leadership roles in national security, cybersecurity, criminal investigations, intelligence and counterterrorism. At The Chertoff Group, he provides strategic counsel to the firm’s Security Risk & Resilience practice.
Mark Koumans is a seasoned executive leader decades of federal service specializing in border security, immigration and international operations. He held senior roles at DHS, CBP, and USCIS, contributing to security, international partnerships and IT modernization, and also served for many years at the Department of State.
Phil Horvitz is an experienced entrepreneur and recognized technology leader with expertise in building and leading companies related to the federal government sector. He co-founded Apptis and founded and served as CEO of General Data Systems, specializing in national security and identity management. He held senior roles at Amentum and AECOM.
At The Chertoff Group, Koumans and Horvitz will assist with business development pursuits for clients in the Federal Strategy Growth practice.
About The Chertoff Group
The Chertoff Group is a global leader in security. Our team of recognized experts helps organizations to manage cyber, physical, regulatory and geopolitical risks. Through our business development practice, we enable our clients to gain competitive advantage and accelerate growth. Our private equity business focuses on investments in companies in the defense technology, government services and cybersecurity sectors. Together we enable a more secure world. Learn more at Chertoffgroup.com and follow The Chertoff Group on LinkedIn.
