McLean is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran and a rising leader in the business world. After commissioning, he attended Oxford University as a Fulbright and Truman scholar before serving as a Navy fighter pilot and test pilot, flying F/A-18 Super Hornets and earning recognition for his exemplary service and leadership. After completing three combat deployments aboard carriers, graduating from Navy Test Pilot School and logging over 1,800 military flight hours, he was selected as a White House Fellow, through which he gained valuable experience in executive branch leadership and policymaking. McLean also earned an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, equipping him with advanced skills in finance and management.
In his civilian career, McLean is CEO of ghSMART, a global leadership advisory firm whose mission is to help the world’s highest performing boards, CEOs, and investors build valuable companies. His work includes helping organizations across industries identify and develop high-performing leaders, improve executive team effectiveness and solve critical business strategy challenges. McLean’s combined experience as a military officer and business executive has forged in him an exceptional ability to evaluate leadership potential, foster strategic growth and lead complex organizations.
McLean continues his dedicated service as a reservist and in his local community through service on the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, WI, and coaching youth sports. His analytical mindset, experience with corporate governance, and expertise in talent management make him well-suited to contribute to the Board’s committees that focus on selecting future leaders and honorees, communicating the Academy’s value to stakeholders and ensuring that the Alumni Association continues to cultivate strong leadership for years to come.