Sean Barnes

Lead a multidisciplinary team in CIA’s Center for Cyber Intelligence focused on East Asian cyber threats, tools, and strategies. Built the unit from the ground up through smart hiring, mentoring, and training. Partner with NSA and other agencies to support operations, inform policy, and identify opportunities in East Asia’s network environment. Developed specialized expertise in adversarial network defenses, surveillance tools, and information control. Guide strategic planning by assessing evolving cyber threats and improving analysis workflows. Help operators understand and target foreign network capabilities, while ensuring continuity during organizational changes.

Served as the senior analyst on rotation at the Director’s Operations Center, delivering real-time updates on global threats to support high-level decision-making. Briefed senior CIA leadership daily and authored key intelligence products, including the Director’s Executive Summary and Daily Press Summaries. Ensured accuracy and security of all reporting under tight deadlines. Recognized with a Meritorious Unit Citation and two Exceptional Performance Awards.

Launched a new humanitarian analysis account and Community of Interest in the CIA’s Transnational and Technology Mission Center, focused on complex emergencies and natural disasters. Led projects to ensure timely, policy-compliant analysis. Built cross-agency partnerships and production plans aligned with NSC priorities. Worked with experts across the IC, DOE National Labs, and academia to drive targeted data collection and cyber innovation. Recognized with an Exceptional Performance Award and Meritorious Unit Citation.

Delivered data-driven assessments for covert action programs using MOP-MOE metrics to evaluate performance and impact. Reviewed sensitive operations, identified improvements, and briefed senior CIA leaders, Congress, and mission partners. Produced long-form intelligence products using structured analytic techniques and coordinated input across directorates. Built strong internal and external relationships to enhance operational effectiveness, while upholding strict standards for handling classified information.

Led a technical targeting and support team at the National Counterterrorism Center, focused on advanced methods, tools, and data integration. Oversaw data stewardship, security, and the use of data science in tactical and strategic analysis. Built and managed a multi-agency fusion lab for threat analysis and tool development. Collaborated with IC collectors, data scientists, and analysts to drive innovation in technical targeting. Managed multiple cross-agency projects with strong organizational and time management skills. Earned three Exceptional Performance Awards.

Led technical and operational targeting efforts, tool and database development, and advanced methodologies integration at the Group level in the Information Operations Center. Managed all-source and technical targeting analysis, as well as editorial and training content related to cryptographic programs. Served as Senior Advisor and Special Assistant to the Chief of the Identity Intelligence Center. Coordinated closely with NSA, FBI and other partners. Oversaw multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills.

Served as Technical Targeting Analyst, Team Lead, Technical Operations Officer, and Project Manager for initiatives targeting foreign computer and telecom networks. Led cyber threat analysis and network security efforts using a multidisciplinary approach. Acted as Senior Analyst in support of global CNO missions, working closely with the Agency and IC partners, and US National Labs. Earned four Exceptional Performance Awards.

Specialized training included penetration testing, cyber forensics, mobile security, OSINT, network architecture, malware analysis, cyber counterintelligence, Python scripting, and analysis.

Served as Coordinator, and Targeting Analyst supporting CN and CT efforts in Latin America in CIA’s Crime and Narcotics Center. Worked with IC, US military, law enforcement, and foreign partners to disrupt illicit trafficking networks. Operated in hazardous environments, demonstrating adaptability, cultural awareness, and strong organizational skills. Completed CIA Special Operations Training and received an Exceptional Performance Award and Meritorious Unit Citation.

Training included small unit operations, riverine and land navigation, tactical driving, first aid, field logistics, and collaboration with military and paramilitary units.

Joined the US Navy through the delayed entry program and completed Basic Enlisted Submarine School in New London, CT. Deployed on ballistic missile subs for nuclear deterrence and ISR/SIGINT missions, contributing to national security in high-risk environments. Qualified in ship control, firefighting, engineering, logistics, ordnance, and nuclear weapons security. Earned Submarine Warfare “Dolphins” insignia, Battle ‘E’ awards, and multiple medals including Nuclear Deterrent Patrol, Good Conduct, Cold War, and Humanitarian Service. Recognized as a Distinguished Expert in small arms and close-quarters combat. Honorably discharged to active reserves in 1991.