CISA’s Secure by Design Initiative: Leadership Departures Raise Concerns for Future Success
CISA's Secure by Design Initiative Faces Uncertainty as Key Leaders Depart
Two senior officials driving CISA's flagship cybersecurity program resigned unexpectedly this week, casting doubt on the future of the agency's Secure by Design implementation and strategy. Bob Lord and Lauren Zabierek, both senior advisers at CISA, announced their departures on April 21, 2025, citing personal reasons.
The resignations come at a critical juncture for the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's efforts to enhance software security across the private sector. Their exits raise questions about the continuity of a program that has garnered support from over 250 major technology companies.
Impact on Public-Private Partnerships
Since its launch in April 2023, the Secure by Design initiative has transformed how software manufacturers approach cybersecurity. The program's core mission focuses on integrating security measures during the design phase rather than as an afterthought.
Major tech giants including Microsoft and Google have embraced the initiative's principles by:
- Implementing stronger multifactor authentication
- Reducing reliance on default passwords
- Improving software patching processes
Leadership Void Creates Uncertainty
The departure of Lord, former chief security officer at the Democratic National Committee and Yahoo, and Zabierek, who previously led Harvard's Belfer Center Cyber Security Project, leaves a significant leadership vacuum. Organizations seeking to maintain strong security practices may benefit from exploring virtual CISO services to strengthen cybersecurity leadership.
"One of the most meaningful experiences of my career," Zabierek described her time leading the initiative. Lord indicated plans to continue supporting the movement after taking a break.
Acting CISA Director Bridget Bean attempted to calm concerns about the program's future, stating that while approaches may evolve, the agency remains committed to Secure by Design's core principles.
Industry Response and Future Outlook
The Business Software Alliance has reaffirmed its support for the initiative amid the leadership changes. However, the program faces several challenges:
- Recent workforce reductions at CISA
- Shifting leadership priorities under the current administration
- Need for continued industry collaboration
- Maintaining momentum without key architects
As organizations navigate these changes, establishing an appropriate cybersecurity budget aligned with organizational goals becomes increasingly important.
The success of this voluntary public-private partnership now depends on CISA's ability to maintain industry engagement and adapt to evolving cybersecurity challenges. As the agency navigates this transition period, the effectiveness of its Secure by Design initiative hangs in the balance.
For more information about CISA's Secure by Design initiative, visit the official CISA website.
