Will Parish

Consultant — United States

Will Parish is a consultant and distinguished global team leader, with over a decade of experience in global management, strategic relations and innovative solutions with the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Navy. A versatile professional, he drove bilateral partnerships and large-scale operations in complex and evolving environments.

In his latest position, Will was Director, Office of Defense Cooperation at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico. Hand-picked to be the direct representative on all maritime matters at the U.S. Embassy, he was accountable for driving operational effectiveness and strategic relations between the U.S. and Mexican defense institutions. Prior to this position, he served as the Deputy Director, Strategy & Plans, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, as a senior member for U.S. Naval operations and engagements in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Previously, Will served as a Congressional adviser to multiple Assistant Secretaries at the U.S. State Department regarding U.S. foreign policy on arms control and non-proliferation.

Will started his career as a Naval Flight Officer flying the F-14D and F/A-18F aboard aircraft carriers in the Persian Gulf. He has also served as a Director, U.S. Naval Forces Europe–Africa, positioned in Catania, Italy as well as Director, Office of Defense Cooperation at the U.S. Embassy in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in History with a minor in Spanish, from the United States Naval Academy, a Master of Art in National Security Studies from the United States Naval Postgraduate School and completed the Transition to Business, a general management certificate program for military veterans and elite athletes, program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.  Will enjoys skiing, golf, soccer, traveling, and remaining active in the veteran community.

Awards and Recognition

  • Defense Meritorious Service Medal – 2018
  • Air Medal – 2006
  • Meritorious Service Medal – 2021, 2023
  • Joint Service Commendation Medal – 2015
  • Navy & Marine Corp Commendation Medal – 2011
  • Humanitarian Service Medal – 2008
  • NATO Medal – 2011