Karen Evans Appointed as Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity at CISA

Karen Evans Appointed as New Cybersecurity Executive Director at CISA

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has announced the appointment of Karen Evans as the new Executive Assistant Director (EAD) for Cybersecurity. With nearly two decades of experience in federal cyber policy, critical infrastructure protection, and IT modernization, Evans brings a wealth of expertise to this pivotal role, amid a period of organizational renewal for the agency.

Evans steps into the position following a robust tenure at CISA, where she served as a senior advisor in the cybersecurity division. Her responsibilities included shaping strategies aimed at bolstering the cybersecurity posture of federal networks and advising on emerging threats.

Her prior roles further illustrate a commitment to cybersecurity across both public and private sectors. As Managing Director of the Cyber Readiness Institute (CRI), she focused on enhancing cybersecurity resilience for small and medium-sized businesses, bridging the gap between private sector challenges and national security needs. Additionally, she co-founded SafeGov, an advisory firm that helped government entities navigate secure cloud computing.

In her earlier positions at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Energy (DOE), Evans played key roles in IT modernization and security initiatives. Her experience as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of DHS saw her oversee significant IT investments and cybersecurity strategies.

Karen Evans’ appointment comes at a critical juncture for CISA, which is refocusing its mission on cybersecurity in response to evolving threats. With former DOE officials considered for other leadership positions, Evans’ leadership is seen as vital for shaping the agency’s future direction. Her background, including a Ph.D. in Business Administration and recognition from the National Academy of Public Administration, underscores her readiness to tackle the challenges ahead in securing the nation’s cyber infrastructure.