Ken Buttrum is a retired U.S. Army senior enlisted leader and operations professional with more than two decades of experience leading people, organizations, and complex mission-support activities in joint, multinational, and deployed environments. He served as the Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Africa Command’s J5 directorate, advising generals and senior officers while helping synchronize strategic planning, security-cooperation priorities, and engagement activities across the African theater. As the 353d Civil Affairs Command Director of Operations, Ken directed operational planning, readiness, training, and coordination for a geographically dispersed force, translating commander’s intent into disciplined execution and measurable results. His career also includes overseas deployments and civil-affairs assignments that required sound judgment, relationship building, interagency coordination, and the ability to lead effectively in dynamic, high-stakes conditions.

A committed leader, mentor, and coach, Ken builds capable teams by setting clear standards, investing in professional development, and helping individuals turn experience into confidence and performance. His experience as a U.S. Army Drill Instructor strengthened his ability to teach, coach, enforce standards, and develop resilient leaders from diverse backgrounds—skills he has carried throughout his senior leadership career. At CAVU International, Ken brings a people-first, mission-focused approach to developing leaders, improving organizational readiness, and guiding clients through complex operational challenges with integrity, accountability, and practical expertise.