Brett Leatherman Appointed as Assistant Director of the FBI’s Cyber Division

In a significant move for the FBI’s Cyber Division, Brett Leatherman, a seasoned official with over two decades of experience, has been appointed as the new assistant director. This transition comes after the retirement of Bryan Vorndran, who played a pivotal role in reshaping the bureau’s approach to cyber threats.

A New Chapter in Cybersecurity Leadership

Brett Leatherman’s appointment was announced by the newly appointed FBI Director, Kash Patel. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, Leatherman expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside the dedicated professionals within the FBI’s cyber program. He acknowledged the importance of their mission, emphasizing the unique challenges they face in combating cybercrime. Leatherman thanked Vorndran for fostering a partnership-focused and victim-centric approach during his tenure.

A Proven Track Record

Before stepping into his new role, Leatherman served as the deputy assistant director for cyber operations. His extensive background includes significant positions in the Cleveland and Detroit field offices, where he honed his skills in various investigative capacities. As section chief of National Security Cyber Operations, he collaborated with multiple U.S. intelligence agencies to address state-affiliated cyber threats.

Leatherman’s leadership experience extends to managing teams that tackle sophisticated criminal and state-sponsored cyber groups. He also directed the National Cyber Investigative Joint Task Force, an interagency initiative aimed at enhancing information sharing among various governmental bodies.

Addressing Cyber Threats with Urgency and Innovation

In his LinkedIn announcement, Leatherman highlighted the urgency and innovation required in his new role. He emphasized the need for close partnerships across government, industry, and international alliances to effectively combat cyber adversaries. His commitment to imposing costs on cybercriminals while supporting victims of cybercrime reflects a proactive stance against the evolving threat landscape.

“Our charge is simple but not easy: make malicious cyber activity unsustainable,” Leatherman stated. He outlined a comprehensive strategy that includes disrupting criminal and nation-state actors, sharing intelligence to aid victims, and engaging persistently to shape the broader cybersecurity environment.

Building on Vorndran’s Legacy

Leatherman steps into this role at a time when the FBI is evolving its approach to cyber threats. Under Vorndran’s leadership, the bureau expanded its anti-cybercrime tactics beyond traditional methods of indictment and arrest. The FBI has increasingly focused on incident response, including outreach to ransomware victims and dismantling the infrastructure of cybercriminal organizations.

Vorndran’s tenure was marked by a shift in strategy, emphasizing the need to erode the ecosystems that support cybercriminal activities. He advocated for a more holistic approach to cybersecurity, which included not just punitive measures but also preventative strategies aimed at protecting potential victims.

The Future of Cybersecurity at the FBI

As Leatherman takes the helm of the Cyber Division, the FBI’s commitment to addressing cyber threats remains steadfast. His extensive experience and innovative mindset position him well to lead the bureau in navigating the complexities of modern cybercrime. With a focus on collaboration and intelligence sharing, Leatherman aims to enhance the FBI’s capabilities in protecting both national security and the interests of the private sector.

In conclusion, Brett Leatherman’s appointment as assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division marks a pivotal moment in the bureau’s ongoing battle against cyber threats. His leadership promises to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, fostering a more resilient and responsive approach to the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime. As the FBI continues to adapt to new challenges, Leatherman’s vision for a partnership-driven, victim-centric strategy will be crucial in shaping the future of cybersecurity.