Michigan Cybersecurity Efforts Under New Leadership

Laura Clark was recently named chief security officer (CSO) for Michigan and director of the Department of Technology, Management and Budget Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection on Jan. 25, according to a recent state announcement.

Clark had been serving in the role in an interim capacity since last summer, following the departure of Michigan’s former CSO Chris DeRusha, who was tapped to lead cybersecurity for President Joe Biden's campaign and later selected to serve as the federal CISO within the administration.

Clark brings more than 20 years of experience working in state government and has served in several positions throughout DTMB. She’s led several IT grant programs supporting local, state and federal stakeholders, and also represents the state at the national level as a cybersecurity advocate and through the National Governors Association and National Association of State Chief Information Officers. 

As part of the state’s new leadership team, she will lead the implementation of strategic cybersecurity plans and public IT protocols.

“Laura brings a unique blend of strengths to the role, including leadership, vision and strategic and tactical planning, along with the ability to promote collaboration at all levels, and to support critical, high-level statewide projects to successful completion,” DTMB Communications Director Caleb Buhs said in a statement.