Biography

W. Beau Black is currently employed by Shell Oil Company as a security advisor for the United States and the corporate security focal point for government agency and trade associations on security regulations. He began his career in law enforcement and public service at an early age working for both the Plaquemines and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Offices. In 2014, Beau was elected to the Plaquemines Parish Council as the representative for District 2 and was its Chairman in 2019. He dually serves Plaquemines as a commissioner of the Plaquemines Parish Port Harbor and Terminal District and was its Chairman from 2016-2018. He is also an adjunct professor at Tulane University in the School of Professional Advancement where he created and now instructs the Corporate Security advanced degree course. Beau was previously a 10 year career member of the United States Foreign Service at the Department of State, serving in multiple roles in Washington DC, San Francisco, New Orleans, U.S. Embassy Beijing, China, U.S. Consulate Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and U.S. Embassy Suva, Fiji, where he also served as the interim Deputy Chief of Mission. Beau holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Loyola University New Orleans and a master’s degree in Military Operational Art and Science from the Air Force Air Command and Staff College. Beau resides in Belle Chasse, LA and is the proud father of beautiful twin girls.

What is the best advice you've ever received?
"Our destiny is not determined by the shoes we wear, only by the steps we take."

What advice would you give to someone who's considering finishing their degree, or starting for the first time as an adult?
The lessons learned or to be learned, the people you've met or will meet, and the relationships you have built or will build during this journey will help define your success in this profession.

Who has influenced you most in life?
My grandfather, my step-father, and The Dalai Lama