Who Is Cofer Black? Age, Biography and Wiki
Cofer Black, born in 1950, is a renowned U.S. intelligence officer and diplomat who has made significant contributions to national security and international relations. As of 2025, Cofer Black is 75 years old. Having served in key roles within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the U.S. State Department, he is noted for his expertise in counter-terrorism and intelligence operations. His pivotal role during the aftermath of the September 11 attacks helped shape America’s response to global terrorism.
You can learn more about his life and career on his Wikipedia page.
| Occupation | Executives |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1950 (age 75) |
| Age | 75 Years |
| Birth Place | Stamford, Connecticut, U.S. |
| Horoscope | |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Cofer Black's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Cofer Black maintains a commanding presence. While exact measurements are not publicly disclosed, estimates suggest he stands around 6 feet tall and has a well-built frame, typical of someone who has dedicated a significant part of their life to both tactical operations and diplomatic endeavors.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, information regarding Cofer Black's dating status remains relatively private. His personal life has been shielded from public scrutiny, focusing primarily on his professional achievements. There are no confirmed reports of a girlfriend or significant other, indicating that he may prioritize his career and public service over personal relationships.
At the CIA, Black trained for the clandestine service and volunteered for Africa based on his knowledge of the region from childhood travels with his father across the continent. Initially, he worked as a case officer in Lusaka, Zambia during the Rhodesian Bush War.
He then transferred to Somalia, where he served for two years during the conflict between Ethiopians and Somalis. He worked in South Africa during the National Party government's war against guerrilla movements opposing the apartheid system.
While assigned to Kinshasa, Zaire, Black was involved in the Reagan Administration's covert action program to arm anti-communist guerrillas in neighboring Angola.
Net Worth and Salary
Cofer Black has enjoyed a distinguished career which has contributed to his substantial net worth. As of 2025, estimates place his net worth at approximately $5 million. His financial gains come from a combination of his long tenure in government service and subsequent consulting roles in the private sector, where expertise in intelligence and security is highly valued.
Career, Business and Investments
Cofer Black’s career spans several decades, predominately within the realms of intelligence and diplomacy. After serving as the head of the CIA’s Counterterrorist Center, he transitioned to positions that include Vice Chairman of Blackwater, a controversial private military company. Black’s insights into national security have also positioned him as a sought-after consultant for various government and private entities.
His investments mainly focus on security and intelligence services, aligning with his extensive background in the industry. As of 2025, Black remains involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing global security measures and counter-terrorism efforts.
In 1993, Black transferred from London to Khartoum, Sudan, where he served as CIA station chief until 1995. This was at a low point in U.S.-Sudanese relations, due to the latter's sponsorship of terrorism and the harboring of Carlos the Jackal and Al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden.
Black oversaw the collection of human intelligence (HUMINT) on terrorist cells and support structures; toward the end of his tenure, he was targeted by Al Qaeda for assassination (see Woodward, Bush at War, p. 9). Black was also responsible for the collection of intelligence that led to the 1994 capture of the terrorist known as Carlos the Jackal.
Social Network
Cofer Black has maintained a relatively low profile on social media. He is not known for having active personal accounts on mainstream platforms, preferring to keep his engagements within professional networks. However, his contributions to the field have been acknowledged through various leadership forums and seminars related to international security, where he occasionally shares insights.
After the attacks on the World Trade Center and The Pentagon, some CTC staff refused an order to evacuate the CIA headquarters at Langley.
This included the shift of the Global Response Center on the exposed sixth floor, which Black would eventually argue had "a key function in a crisis like this." CIA Director Tenet finally accepted that Black wouldn't leave, and that their lives would be put at risk.
Education
Cofer Black holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he majored in Sociology. His education provided a solid foundation for his subsequent career in intelligence and diplomacy. Additionally, his experience in various operational roles and leadership positions has further enhanced his understanding of complex global issues.
A native of Ridgefield, Connecticut, Black completed his BA at the University of Southern California in 1973. The next year he earned a master's degree in international relations, also at USC. He then was accepted to a doctoral program at USC, but left in 1975 to join the CIA.
