Patrick J. Murphy is the Chairman of the Hilco Global Geopolitical Unit. He brings a wealth of expertise in public policy, military leadership, legal strategy, and innovation, honed through distinguished service in both government and the private sector.
Before joining the Hilco Global Geopolitical Unit, Patrick served as the 32nd United States Under Secretary of the Army, confirmed by the U.S. Senate in December 2015, three days after which he assumed duties as Acting Secretary of the Army. In this role, he provided strategic leadership for a Fortune 10-sized organization, driving initiatives including technology modernization, talent recruitment and management, and innovation within the Army, and was recognized for advancing veteran advocacy and digital transformation across the service. He was the first Iraq War veteran elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Pennsylvania’s 8th congressional district from 2007 to 2011, where he sponsored the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, co-authored the 21st Century G.I. Bill, and served on the Armed Services, Select Intelligence, and Appropriations committees.
A decorated military officer, Patrick served as a judge advocate in the U.S. Army, including deployments to Bosnia and Iraq, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service. His leadership extended beyond the battlefield as a part of the military faculty at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he taught constitutional law and mentored future leaders.
Patrick’s legal and academic background includes earning a JD from Widener University Commonwealth Law School and a BA from King’s College. He has also held roles at Cozen O’Connor, a leading national Am Law 100 law firm, and as a venture capitalist investing over $250 million in veteran-owned companies. His lifelong dedication to public service includes his current tenure as a faculty member at the Wharton School of Business and formerly as the Distinguished Chair of Innovation at West Point.
Throughout his career, Patrick has been recognized for his commitment to innovation, veterans’ issues, and national security. He has advised organizations and institutions across sectors on governance, compliance, and leadership. He continues to engage in advisory roles and thought leadership, including his work as a TV contributor, podcast host, and public speaker.
In addition to the Bronze Star Medal, Patrick holds numerous awards and decorations from his military service, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the John F. Kennedy Jr ‘Profile in Courage’ Award from Brown University and the Dwight D. Eisenhower National Public Service Award from the Student Veterans of America. He remains dedicated to fostering innovation and good governance, empowering organizations to navigate complex challenges in today’s global landscape.
