Nicholas Andersen Appointed as CISA’s New Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has made a significant leadership change with the appointment of Nicholas Andersen as its new Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity. Officially assuming his role on September 2, 2025, Andersen steps into this critical position at a time when the nation faces increasingly complex digital threats targeting its vital infrastructure.
A Warm Welcome from CISA Leadership
Acting CISA Director Madhu Gottumukkala expressed enthusiasm about Andersen’s appointment, stating, “I am pleased to welcome Nick Andersen to our CISA leadership team. His broad experience across business, government, and technology uniquely positions him to strengthen our engagement with critical infrastructure partners, helping them better assess risk and elevate their security posture.” This sentiment underscores the importance of Andersen’s role in enhancing national cybersecurity efforts during a pivotal time.
A Commitment to National Security
For Andersen, this new role represents both a responsibility and a continuation of his long-standing mission to defend the United States. He remarked, “I am honored to have the opportunity to join CISA and the trust placed in me by President Donald Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem. My career has been dedicated to defending America, and I look forward to continuing that mission at CISA.” His commitment to national security is evident, and his extensive background positions him well to lead CISA’s cybersecurity initiatives.
Nicholas Andersen: A Distinguished Career in Security
Andersen’s professional journey has been marked by a dedication to safeguarding the nation’s critical infrastructure against both physical and digital threats. His career reflects a unique blend of military service, government leadership, and private sector expertise, providing him with a comprehensive perspective on today’s cyber challenges.
Military and Government Experience
A decorated U.S. Marine veteran, Andersen’s military background has instilled in him the discipline and foresight necessary for effective leadership. His accolades include being named Intelligence Executive of the Year and recognized as one of the top 10 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) to watch by Washington Executive Magazine.
In the public sector, Andersen has held senior roles at the Department of Energy’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response from 2019 to 2021. As Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and later Acting Assistant Secretary, he directed national initiatives aimed at protecting the U.S. energy sector from cyber and physical threats. His leadership was pivotal in responding to Iranian cyber threats and managing disaster recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.
Private Sector Contributions
In the private sector, Andersen served as President and Chief Operating Officer at Invictus, where he oversaw cybersecurity, intelligence integration, and technology delivery for both federal and commercial partners. His role as Chief Information Security Officer at Lumen Technologies Public Sector further showcased his ability to bridge public and private interests. There, he designed and executed a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, launched secure offerings, and established partnerships that enhanced national resilience.
Transition in Leadership at CISA
Andersen’s arrival marks a significant shift in leadership within CISA’s cybersecurity division. Chris Butera, who has been serving as Acting Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity, will transition into the role of Acting Deputy Executive Assistant Director. This continuity is crucial for maintaining stability in the agency’s cybersecurity operations while Andersen takes the helm.
The Evolving Landscape of Cyber Threats
CISA, often referred to as the nation’s cyber defense agency, is tasked with protecting both digital and physical infrastructure that Americans rely on daily. The appointment of Nicholas Andersen comes at a time when threats to this infrastructure are evolving rapidly, ranging from state-sponsored attacks to criminal exploitation of critical services.
With Andersen’s diverse background and proven leadership, CISA aims to deepen its collaboration with industry partners, enhance national preparedness, and ensure resilience in the face of growing cyber threats and attacks. As the agency navigates this complex landscape, Andersen’s expertise will be invaluable in fortifying the nation’s cybersecurity posture.
Conclusion
Nicholas Andersen’s appointment as Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity at CISA is a pivotal moment for the agency and the nation. His extensive experience in both the public and private sectors equips him to tackle the pressing challenges of cybersecurity head-on. As he embarks on this new journey, the focus will be on strengthening partnerships, enhancing security measures, and safeguarding the critical infrastructure that underpins American society.