Biography

Frances F. Townsend

Director

Ms. Townsend has been a director and Chair of our Compensation Committee since 2009. Ms. Townsend also serves as our lead independent director. Presently, she is running her own consulting business providing strategic advice to Boards and CEOs. Prior to that, she was the EVP of Corporate Affairs, Corporate Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer at Activision Blizzard. From 2010-2020, Ms. Townsend worked at MacAndrews & Forbes Inc. and concluded her tenure there as Vice Chairman, General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer. Before that she was Executive Vice President for Worldwide Government, Legal and Business Affairs working across MacAndrew’s portfolio companies focusing on international, legal, compliance and business development issues. From 2016 to 2022, Ms. Townsend was also an on-air senior national security analyst for CBS News. From April 2009 to October 2010, Ms. Townsend was a corporate partner with the law firm of Baker Botts, LLP. Prior to that, Ms. Townsend served as Assistant to President George W. Bush for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism and chaired the Homeland Security Council from 2004 to 2008. She also served as Deputy National Security Advisor for Combatting Terrorism from May 2003 to May 2004. Ms. Townsend also spent 13 years at the U.S. Department of Justice under the administrations of President George H. W. Bush, President Bill Clinton and President George W. Bush.

Ms. Townsend currently serves as a director with Chubb Limited, and Freeport-McMoRan Inc. She previously served on the boards of SciPlay Corporation (2019 to 2020), Scientific Games Corporation (2010 to 2020), and Western Union (2013 to 2020). Ms. Townsend serves on several non-profit boards including the Council on Foreign Relations, the Atlantic Council, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the McCain Institute. Ms. Townsend received a bachelor of arts degree in political science and a bachelor of science degree in psychology from American University. She also received a juris doctor degree from the University of San Diego School of Law. Ms. Townsend brings to our board a deep understanding of national security issues and broad experience providing strategic advice in law, business and government. Ms. Townsend is a proxy holder and was appointed to our board in accordance with the Commitment Letter.

Lead Director