Nick Andersen Appointed Acting Director of CISA
The United States’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has appointed Nick Andersen as its acting director.
Appointment and Background
Andersen, who previously served as the agency’s executive assistant director for cybersecurity, takes over the role from Madhu Gottumukkala. Gottumukkala, who joined CISA in May 2025 as deputy director, is leaving to assume the position of director of strategic implementation at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees CISA.
Andersen’s Experience
Andersen brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in both the government and private sectors. He previously held leadership positions at the Department of Energy, the White House, the Coast Guard, the Navy, and the State of Vermont. In the private sector, Andersen served as president and chief operating officer at the cyber and national security firm Invictus and as chief information security officer at the public-sector arm of Lumen Technologies.
Gottumukkala’s Departure
Gottumukkala’s departure comes after reports surfaced that he failed a polygraph test and uploaded sensitive government information into a public version of ChatGPT. His exit also coincides with the nomination of Sean Plankey, who previously held key cyber roles at the Energy Department and the White House, to lead CISA. Plankey’s nomination was blocked last year, but the White House renominated him in January 2026.
Other Changes at CISA
Meanwhile, CISA’s chief information officer, Bob Costello, and acting chief human capital officer, Kevin Diana, have been given the option to take on new roles within the DHS or resign. The agency has not had a permanent director since the second Trump administration.
Andersen’s Appointment
Andersen’s appointment as acting director is seen as a temporary measure until a permanent leader is confirmed. His experience and expertise in cybersecurity will be crucial in steering the agency through this transition period.
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