During the beginning of the year 2008, the United States government promised to increase African support to around $8.7 billion within 2010. U.S has involved itself in numerous projects which bridge development, healthcare and defense programs – 3 major fields where BearingPoint proved major expertise and knowledge. From 1995 to 1999, Blaney was in the Department of Country Director for Southern Africa, and there he directed the policy for ten countries within that region. Before serving as U.S Ambassador to Liberia, Blaney also functioned as United States Deputy Chief of Mission in the country of South Africa. He successfully helped to promote democratic transition of the government and also helped to end civil war in Liberia.

 

Tom joined Foreign Service by 1976, and specialized in the public diplomacy. Tom had African assignment in Kinshasa, Ouagadougou, Mogadishu, Lagos, and Pretoria. In Addis Ababa, he also acted as the Deputy Chief of Mission at American Embassy. From 2004 August till 2007 August, he served as the U.S Ambassador to the Republic of Sierra Leone.

 

Senior vice president for BearingPoint’s Emerging Markets practice James Horner, said, “Many of our clients have unique needs that require an understanding of the interplay between diplomacy, development, health care and defense, areas in which John and Tom have deep knowledge and experience.” Hull and Blaney will utilize their knowledge and skills to continue serving the citizens of Africa.

 

According to Blaney, “There is a new 21st century Africa emerging,” and although progress in certainly not consistent, BearingPoint has deep knowledge to address some of the hindrances to development and growth. Hull said that he is happy to be a part BearingPoint in order to strengthen its focus in Africa.