From: DHS

By Mark Weatherford, Deputy Under Secretary for Cybersecurity

DHS today announced the appointment of Michael W. Locatis III as the new Assistant Secretary for Cybersecurity and Communications (CS&C) at the National Protection and Programs Directorate. Mike brings a wealth of experience in information management, cybersecurity and public safety communications at all levels of government. In his new role, Mike will work collaboratively with public, private and international partners to ensure a safe and secure cyberspace with a focus on protecting federal and critical infrastructure networks. Mike and his team will also coordinate and provide support for a resilient communications system for federal, state, local, tribal and territorial governments and critical infrastructure personnel.

Mike comes to DHS from the Department of Energy (DOE), where he served as Chief Information Officer and led the development of the DOE Joint Cybersecurity Coordination Center (JC3), which applies a proactive approach to risk management and improves situational awareness, incident management and cross-agency collaboration. He also brings the unique experience of having served in leadership positions at the federal, state and local levels of government as well as the private sector.

Mike replaces Greg Schaffer as Assistant Secretary for CS&C. Bobbie Stempfley, who has served admirably in the interim as Acting Assistant Secretary, will return to her role as Deputy Assistant Secretary.