The High Stakes of Cybersecurity Leadership for the New Administration
As we look ahead to the next presidential term, the cybersecurity industry stands at a critical juncture. With new administration changes, questions around leadership in pivotal cybersecurity roles are circulating, particularly within agencies like Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Political.com recently published a list of likely candidates for these positions, including figures from former administrations. These are highly experienced professionals with deep cybersecurity expertise—but the stakes have never been higher, and this moment calls for rigorous vetting and strategic selection.
Cybersecurity is no longer a back-office issue; it’s a frontline defense for national security. The U.S. has led in areas like infrastructure protection, AI, and cyber policy, establishing a reputation for resilience. Yet, as Daniel Acevedo pointed out in our latest episode, “Now is not the time to cut funding or governance or reduce focus on cybersecurity,” particularly with looming threats in critical infrastructure sectors.
Balancing Experience with Vision
While the list of potential candidates includes veterans like Sean Planky and Karen Evans, many in the cybersecurity community are concerned about certain names. The complexity of this moment calls for a leader with both strong credentials and a proactive approach to policy—someone who can navigate the intricacies of AI, critical infrastructure, and growing cyber threats.
Disruption vs. Continuity
As we discuss potential candidates, another important factor is continuity. A complete overhaul of cybersecurity leadership often results in policy churn and delays. If cybersecurity plans are disrupted, critical initiatives could face years of delay, setting back vital progress. My hope is that the new administration will prioritize continuity where possible. As I shared, “My fear is that no one on this list gets picked, and instead we get a curveball with a newcomer who lacks the experience to hit the ground running.”
A Call for Informed Leadership
Cybersecurity policy affects everyone, from individuals to the nation as a whole. This isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about ensuring the U.S. maintains its leadership in an increasingly hostile and complex global cyber environment. As we continue to analyze these developments, our hope is that the administration will value a carefully vetted and balanced approach to cybersecurity appointments.
Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall podcast on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays, as well as the Ask A CISSP podcast every Thursday. Please like, share, and subscribe.
Stay safe, stay secure!
Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current roles as CEO of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC and IT Security Analyst at BuddoBot. Buddobot’s mission is to support national security by transforming, empowering, and educating organizations to shift from reactive, diluted, automated, and high-cost IT and security practices to proactive, effective solutions that fortify their security.
Shannon, also a retired Air Force veteran, has more than two decades of expertise in network security and vulnerability management. He now serves as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO) for the U.S. Space Force, where he continues to enhance national security protocols.
Chris, a Navy veteran with over ten years in IT, information assurance, and risk management, currently works at CompliancePoint. His roles include vCISO, RMF assessor, and consultant, focusing on enhancing data security and privacy for various organizations.
Daniel is an Air Force veteran with over 15 years of combined experience in IT, cybersecurity, information assurance, and government risk compliance. He has held various roles, including IT administrator, cybersecurity engineer, senior information system security manager, and currently serves as a senior security consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton. In this latest role, Daniel leverages his expertise to address unique and complex challenges in the cyber and IT domains, enhancing his customers’ capabilities.
**The Other Side of the Firewall podcast is a product of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC. RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC is a premier governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures. RAM Cyber is pending SDVOSB, VOSB, and 8(a) certification by the SBA, underscoring our commitment to excellence and service.