Richard provides research and strategic insight on global sanctions regimes, energy markets, and geopolitical risk—particularly in the Middle East, Iran, and the United States.

Richard brings deep expertise in US sanctions policy, international nuclear and energy negotiations, and multilateral statecraft. His focus areas include US–Iran relations, Gulf geopolitics, and the intersection of corruption and security policy.

Prior to joining Horizon Engage, Richard served as the inaugural US Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption at the Department of State, reporting directly to Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He held senior roles across the US government, including Deputy Special Envoy for Iran (2021), Principal Deputy Coordinator for Sanctions Policy at the State Department (2013–2015), and Director for Iran at the National Security Council (2011–2013).

Richard is the author of The Art of Sanctions: A View from the Field (Columbia University Press, 2018), a widely cited work on the design and implementation of economic sanctions.

He holds a BA in International Affairs and an MA in Security Policy Studies, both from The George Washington University.