Jen Easterly Takes Helm as RSA Conference CEO After CISA Leadership
Former CISA Director Jen Easterly appointed CEO of RSA Conference, bringing federal cybersecurity expertise to the premier security event.
Former CISA Director Jen Easterly Named RSA Conference CEO
RSA Conference (RSAC) has appointed Jen Easterly, former Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), as its new Chief Executive Officer. Easterly will lead the world-renowned cybersecurity conference and associated programs, effective immediately.
Easterly brings extensive federal cybersecurity leadership to RSAC, having served as CISA Director from 2021 to 2024. During her tenure, she oversaw critical initiatives including the Shields Up campaign during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, expanded vulnerability disclosure programs, and strengthened public-private partnerships in critical infrastructure protection.
"Jen Easterly's appointment signals RSAC's commitment to bridging government and industry perspectives in cybersecurity," said a spokesperson for RSA Conference. "Her experience at CISA provides unique insights into the evolving threat landscape that will benefit our global community."
Technical Leadership Background
Prior to CISA, Easterly served as Head of Firm Resilience at Morgan Stanley, where she developed enterprise-wide cyber risk management programs. Her government career includes roles at the National Security Agency (NSA) and U.S. Cyber Command, with a focus on counterterrorism and cyber operations.
Industry Impact
Easterly's transition to RSAC comes at a pivotal time for the cybersecurity industry:
- Conference Evolution: RSAC faces growing competition from regional security events and virtual alternatives
- Threat Landscape: Rising geopolitical tensions and AI-driven attacks demand stronger public-private collaboration
- Regulatory Environment: Increased SEC cybersecurity disclosure rules require executive-level guidance
"Her leadership will be instrumental in shaping RSAC's response to emerging threats like AI-powered attacks and supply chain risks," noted a cybersecurity industry analyst.
Next Steps
Easterly is expected to:
- Oversee preparations for RSAC 2025, scheduled for May 5-8 in San Francisco
- Expand RSAC's year-round educational programs and threat intelligence sharing initiatives
- Strengthen partnerships with government agencies and international cybersecurity organizations
The appointment reflects RSAC's strategic focus on integrating federal cybersecurity expertise with industry innovation. Easterly succeeds Linda Gray Martin, who served as Interim CEO following the departure of Hugh Thompson in 2023.
For security professionals, Easterly's leadership promises enhanced focus on practical threat mitigation strategies and executive-level cyber risk management at future RSAC events.