Key Takeaways
- The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is hiring a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead cybersecurity strategy and defense for both the Air Force and Space Force.
- The CISO will be based at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, with applications accepted through July 26 for a Senior Executive Service (SES) position.
- Recent leadership changes include the appointment of Ashley Devoto as DAF Chief Information Officer and Col. Becky Beers serving as acting CISO.
- The role involves developing enterprise‑wide cybersecurity policies, managing risk via the Risk Management Framework, overseeing training and incident response, and advising senior defense leaders.
- Candidates must have executive‑level experience directing cyberspace operations, representing cybersecurity interests in high‑level forums, and leading multidisciplinary organizations.
- As an SES Tier‑2 role, the position will be evaluated against the five Executive Core Qualifications: rule‑of‑law commitment, driving efficiency, leading people, achieving results, and business acumen.
Introduction
The Department of the Air Force (DAF) has launched a nationwide search for a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) who will steer cybersecurity strategy and cyber‑defense initiatives across the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. Announced via a LinkedIn post from the Office of the DAF Chief Information Officer, the vacancy is situated at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, reflecting the seniority and visibility of the post. Applications are being accepted through July 26 for a Senior Executive Service (SES) appointment, underscoring the urgency DAF places on fortifying its digital defenses amid evolving threats.
Recent Leadership Context
The CISO search follows a series of recent leadership moves within DAF’s information technology hierarchy. In May, Ashley Devoto—a seasoned technology and cybersecurity executive—was appointed as the Department’s Chief Information Officer (CIO). Shortly thereafter, Col. Becky Beers assumed the role of acting CISO, providing interim oversight while the formal recruitment process unfolds. These appointments signal DAF’s commitment to strengthening its cyber leadership pipeline and ensuring continuity of security governance during the transition.
Core Responsibilities of the DAF CISO
As the departmentwide cybersecurity leader, the DAF CISO will direct the overarching cybersecurity program, crafting policies and strategies that protect the information systems underpinning Air Force and Space Force missions. Key duties include establishing cybersecurity governance frameworks, managing cyber risk processes in accordance with the Risk Management Framework (RMF), and leading the development and prioritization of cyberspace operational capabilities. The incumbent will also oversee security awareness and training initiatives, support cyber incident response efforts, and engage directly in cyber defense operations to safeguard critical assets.
Strategic Advisory and Collaboration Functions
Beyond technical management, the DAF CISO will serve as a senior advisor to top defense officials, including representatives from the Department of War, Joint Staff, and various combatant commands, on emerging cybersecurity trends and planning considerations. The role carries dual designation as the senior agency official for privacy and the senior agency official for records management, requiring integration of privacy safeguards and records governance into cybersecurity practices. Collaboration with defense industry partners, academic institutions, and other stakeholders will be essential to identify capability gaps, evaluate emerging technologies, and drive innovation in cyber defense.
Required Qualifications and Experience
DAF seeks candidates with executive‑level experience directing enterprise‑wide cyberspace operations, formulating cybersecurity strategies, and developing policy within large, complex organizations. Applicants must demonstrate a proven track record of representing cybersecurity interests in high‑level dialogues with defense leaders, federal agencies, and industry executives. Additionally, the position demands expertise in evaluating cyberspace doctrine and operational capability requirements, as well as the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams that span technical, operational, and policy domains.
Executive Core Qualifications Evaluation
Because the CISO role is classified as an Executive Schedule Tier‑2 position within the Senior Executive Service, candidates will be assessed against the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) mandated for SES leadership. These ECQs are: commitment to the rule of law and principles of the American founding; driving efficiency, merit, and competence; leading people; achieving results; and business acumen. Demonstrated proficiency in each area will be essential for selection, ensuring that the chosen leader not only possesses technical cybersecurity acumen but also the broader managerial and ethical competencies required for senior government service.
Application Timeline and Next Steps
Interested professionals have until July 26 to submit their applications via the USAJOBS portal, after which DAF will commence the review and selection process. The successful applicant will be expected to assume the CISO role promptly, working alongside the newly appointed CIO and acting CISO to establish a cohesive cybersecurity posture. Given the strategic importance of protecting Air Force and Space Force networks—especially as the service prepares for discussions at the upcoming 2026 Air & Space Summit on AI, Golden Dome, and network modernization—the appointment of a permanent CISO is a critical step toward resilient, mission‑ready defense operations.