Every chief information security officer understands that unresolved vulnerabilities can eventually become entry points for threats. In the private sector, we don’t ignore gaps in leadership when they pose security risks. However, that’s precisely the risk our nation faces with the ongoing vacancy at the head of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.As the executive director of the National Technology Security Coalition (NTSC), a nonpartisan organization representing chief information security officers and senior security technology leaders from across the country, I can confidently say that this vacancy presents a national cybersecurity risk and must be addressed immediately. The appropriate corrective action is for the Senate to confirm Sean Plankey as the next director of CISA.Our members live and breathe cybersecurity every day. They are responsible for protecting America’s leading enterprises from cyber threats, building resilient systems, and responding to incidents that could disrupt operations, damage reputations, or compromise the personal data of millions of Americans. These challenges are not just theoretical; they are immediate, complex, and constantly evolving. That’s why public-private collaboration is essential, and why a strong, capable leader must be at the helm of CISA.Sean Plankey is precisely that kind of leader.Plankey combines strategic vision, operational experience, and a strong commitment to public service — qualities essential for this role. He served as principal deputy assistant secretary at the Department of Energy’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response, where he played a key role in safeguarding the nation’s critical energy infrastructure from cyber threats. His work there gave him direct experience managing risk at the intersection of digital and physical security.At the White House, Plankey served as director for maritime and pacific cybersecurity policy at the National Security Council. In that role, he co-authored the National Maritime Cybersecurity Plan and contributed to presidential directives on offensive cyberspace operations, efforts that strengthened national strategy and improved interagency coordination. His leadership helped protect America’s ports and shipping lanes from cyber threats, which are vital to both our economic security and military readiness.Plankey’s qualifications are extensive. As a commissioned officer in the U.S. Coast Guard, he was deployed to Afghanistan, where he took part in offensive cyber operations. This gave him direct experience with the cyber side of modern warfare. He understands not only the policy impacts of cyber threats but also the tactical realities — insights that few others possess.In addition to his technical and strategic credentials, Plankey has demonstrated a clear understanding of how to navigate government agencies and work with the private sector. His ability to operate across organizations and industries is exactly what is needed now, as cybersecurity is no longer just a technical matter but a vital national security issue.For CISOs and national security professionals alike, leadership at CISA is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. With increasing geopolitical instability, the expanding use of artificial intelligence by both defenders and attackers, and the rapid growth of digital infrastructure, we face a threat landscape that demands clarity, coordination, and expertise at the highest level. Leaving CISA without someone in charge during this period of heightened risk is like leaving a ship adrift in stormy seas.Our country cannot afford any further delays. The cybersecurity community needs a leader at CISA who can work with industry, state, and local partners, as well as international allies, to strengthen defenses and respond quickly to emerging threats. Plankey has earned the trust and respect of both the public and private sectors. He is prepared to lead from day one.The Senate should act quickly to confirm Plankey as the new director of CISA. This would not only fill a critical leadership void but also strengthen America’s digital defenses.Patrick D. Gaul is the executive director of the National Technology Security Coalition, a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that serves as an advocacy voice for chief information security officers across the nation.The post Patch the vulnerability: Confirm Sean Plankey as CISA director appeared first on CyberScoop.