Drenan Dudley steps into acting National Cyber Director role

Drenan Dudley

Drenan Dudley, previously serving as deputy national cyber director for strategy and budget at the ONCD, has been appointed as the acting head of the office.

This transition occurs as the White House awaits Senate confirmation for the nominated National Cyber Director (NCD), Harry Coker. Dudley succeeds Kemba Walden, who has been in charge since March, following the departure of Chris Inglis, the nation’s first NCD, as reported by NextGov on Friday.

The ONCD plays a crucial role in shaping the United States’ cybersecurity policies and strategies. As an essential part of the national security apparatus, the office works towards ensuring the protection and resilience of the nation’s cyberspace infrastructure. It coordinates across various government agencies to strengthen cybersecurity measures and response capabilities.

Drenan Dudley’s career spans over a decade and a half on the Senate Appropriations Committee, a tenure that has significantly contributed to her expertise in budget assessment and strategy. Dudley joined the ONCD in August 2022 as the assistant national cyber director for budget review and assessment. Her new role as the acting head will involve steering the office’s efforts in line with the National Cybersecurity Strategy, focusing on creating a secure and resilient digital environment that resonates with the nation’s core values.

Dudley’s extensive experience is marked by her commitment to national cybersecurity. In contrast, Harry Coker, the President Biden’s nominee for the NCD position, boasts a four-decade-long career in public service. Coker is not only a U.S. Navy veteran but also a senior fellow at Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security and advises various cyber and technology companies.

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