Lazard, Inc. (NYSE: LAZ), the preeminent global financial advisory and asset management firm, announced today that Retired Four-Star U.S. Army General and Former Commander of U.S. Central Command Michael “Erik” Kurilla has joined as Senior Advisor in Lazard’s Geopolitical Advisory group, effective immediately.

General Kurilla brings deep expertise in strategic command within complex environments, most notably in the Middle East and Central Asia. His appointment builds on the success of Lazard Geopolitical Advisory, which was launched three years ago to advise clients navigating the intersection of geopolitics and policy developments with business and investment strategy.

“We are thrilled to welcome General Kurilla to Lazard,” said Peter Orszag, CEO and Chairman of Lazard. “His understanding of international dynamics, including in the Middle East, will further reinforce our ability to help clients look around corners. As geopolitics play an increasing role in business decisions, we are honored to have General Kurilla join Lazard's world-leading Geopolitical Advisory team.”

“Lazard’s position at the nexus of finance and strategic counsel for global leaders and leading Geopolitical Advisory team provides a unique vantage point for understanding and responding to the forces reshaping our world," said General Kurilla. “In an era when geopolitical developments can swiftly influence markets, industries, and economies, I look forward to helping Lazard’s clients position for long-term success."

About General Michael “Erik” Kurilla

Michael “Erik” Kurilla, a retired U.S. Army General, most recently served as the 15^th Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM) for the last three and half years. Previously, he commanded the XVIII Airborne Corps, 82^nd Airborne Division, was the Director of Operations and Assistant Commanding General for Joint Special Operations Command, and commanded the 75^th Ranger Regiment. Over a career spanning four decades, he led Airborne, Mechanized, Stryker, Ranger, and Joint Special Operations units in combat and operational deployments across the globe. General Kurilla has been a driving force in innovation and technology initiatives that significantly advanced warfighting capabilities across the Department of Defense. He was wounded twice in combat and was involved in some of the most strategic and consequential missions affecting the United States and regional security and stability. General Kurilla has strong personal and professional relationships spanning the Middle East, Levant, Central Asia, South Asia, and Europe.

General Kurilla was commissioned from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1988. He holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from West Point, an M.B.A. from Regis University, and an M.S. in National Security Studies from the National War College.

About Lazard

Founded in 1848, Lazard is the preeminent financial advisory and asset management firm, with operations in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. Lazard provides advice on mergers and acquisitions, capital markets and capital solutions, restructuring and liability management, geopolitics, and other strategic matters, as well as asset management and investment solutions to institutions, corporations, governments, partnerships, family offices, and high net worth individuals. Lazard is listed on the New York Stock Exchange as Lazard, Inc. under the ticker LAZ. For more information, please visit Lazard.com and follow Lazard on LinkedIn.

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“Lazard’s position at the nexus of finance and strategic counsel for global leaders and leading Geopolitical Advisory team provides a unique vantage point for understanding and responding to the forces reshaping our world," said General Kurilla.