He was nominated for the post by President Obama on May 23, 2013, confirmed by the Senate on August 1, 2013, via voice vote,[1] and assumed his position on September 3, 2013.

[2] On May 15, 2007, Lute was appointed by George W. Bush to serve as assistant to the president and deputy national security advisor for Iraq and Afghanistan.

He then served on the Joint Staff in the J-5 Directorate for Strategic Plans and Policy, and held a War College Fellowship at the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C.[8] From 1998 to 2000 he commanded the Second Cavalry Regiment, part of XVIII Airborne Corps, at Fort Polk, Louisiana.

[14] On June 28, 2007, the Senate confirmed Lute to serve as the deputy national security advisor.

[17] During his military career he received:[18] In January 2021, Lute joined BGR Group to chair its international and defense practices.