Bill Udell has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Control Risks, with his tenure beginning on June 1, 2026. He is set to replace Nick Allan, who is stepping down after 25 years with the company, which includes over seven years in the CEO role.
Allan played a pivotal role in enhancing the company’s global presence and formulating its strategic direction, and both he and the Board concur that the timing is appropriate for new leadership to guide the firm through its forthcoming evolutionary stage.
Strategic Leadership Transition
Currently, Udell holds the position of Managing Partner for Global Security and is a member of the Board and Executive Committee.
The Board recognized Udell’s insightful grasp of the firm’s prospects and his vision for the future
His responsibilities involve overseeing the delivery of integrated security and strategic intelligence solutions, which include advisory services, operational support, and intricate risk management. Previously, he led the Americas business and contributed significantly to Control Risks’ intelligence-driven approach. The Board recognized Udell’s insightful grasp of the firm’s prospects and his vision for the future, supplemented by a robust history of effectuating change within the company.
Visionary Insights and Strategic Direction
Dominic Casserley, Chair of Control Risks, stated, "Bill stood out through the selection process for his clarity of thinking, his deep understanding of where the firm needs to evolve and his ability to combine strategic vision with disciplined execution. He brings the right balance of experience, energy and perspective to lead Control Risks in its next phase, strengthening our position as a strategic intelligence and security partner to clients worldwide."
Upon accepting his new role, Udell expressed, "It is an honor to be selected as Chief Executive of this remarkable business. By focusing my efforts on the evolving needs of our clients, I am convinced Control Risks is well positioned to further strengthen its market position." Control Risks is globally recognized as a strategic intelligence and security expert, partnering with 80% of the Fortune 500 and 62% of the Fortune Global 500. Drawing from over five decades of experience across 178 countries, the firm offers strategic and operational clarity, helping clients anticipate risks and seize opportunities in challenging environments.
Control Risks, the global strategic intelligence and security firm announces that Bill Udell will become Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1 June 2026. Udell succeeds Nick Allan, who is stepping down after 25 years with the business, including seven and a half years as CEO.
Having led the firm through a period of significant development, strengthening the firm's global position and shaping its strategic direction, Allan and the Board agree that now is the right time for new leadership to take the business forward and drive the next phase of its evolution.
Strategic intelligence capabilities
Udell currently serves as Managing Partner, Global Security and sits on the Board and Executive Committee. He leads the delivery of integrated security and strategic intelligence capabilities spanning advisory, operational support and complex risk management. He previously led the firm's Americas business and has played a key role in strengthening Control Risks' integrated, intelligence-led approach.
The Board selected Udell for his clear-eyed understanding of the firm's opportunities, his practical and compelling vision for its future and his strong track record of leading change across the business.
Global strategic intelligence
Dominic Casserley, Chair of Control Risks, said: "Bill stood out through the selection process for his clarity of thinking, his deep understanding of where the firm needs to evolve and his ability to combine strategic vision with disciplined execution. He brings the right balance of experience, energy and perspective to lead Control Risks in its next phase, strengthening our position as a strategic intelligence and security partner to clients worldwide."
Commenting on his appointment, Udell said: "It is an honor to be selected as Chief Executive of this remarkable business. By focusing my efforts on the evolving needs of our clients, I am convinced Control Risks is well positioned to further strengthen its market position."
Control Risks is a global strategic intelligence and security firm that is a trusted partner to 80% of the Fortune 500 and 62% of the Fortune Global 500. Their global team brings decisive clarity across strategy and operations, from advice to delivery, drawing on more than 50 years' experience in 178 countries. They help clients anticipate risk, protect people, assets and reputation, and pursue opportunity—from the boardroom to the most complex and high-risk environments. When the outlook is uncertain and the stakes are high, they respond with insight and action.
