Lisa Fong steps down as NCSC chief after 13 years of service

The Government Communications Security Bureau has announced the resignation of National Cyber Security Centre head Lisa Fong after 13 years of service.

Lisa Fong joined the GCSB in 2013 as Chief Legal Advisor following a secondment from Crown Law and later became Deputy Director-General Cyber Security in 2016.

During her tenure, the NCSC has expanded its operations and mandate. One of the notable developments in the last year was Fong's supervision of the integration of CERT NZ into the NCSC. This created a singular operational cyber security agency providing support and services to a wide range of stakeholders, from the general public to nationally significant organisations in New Zealand.

"I'd like to pay tribute to Lisa's incredible work and legacy," said GCSB Director-General Andrew Clark. "Under Lisa's leadership, the NCSC has gone from strength-to-strength in the face of the rapidly evolving cyber-security environment. Lisa has been a key member of the GCSB's leadership team. Her 'can-do' attitude, expert advice and organisational leadership will be greatly missed by us all. I wish her well in the next step of her career, where I know she will continue to make an enormous contribution."

Reflecting on her time at the NCSC, Fong expressed satisfaction with how the centre developed under her leadership and highlighted the support of her colleagues and industry partners.

"It has been a privilege to lead the NCSC over a period of change and challenge, and work alongside such a dedicated and talented team."

"I am also pleased with the strong links and collaboration we have established with industry."

"Together we have strengthened New Zealand's ability to detect, prevent and respond to cyber threats. And we have supported our Pacific neighbours as they grow their resilience."

"I'm confident the organisation is well-positioned for the future."

Fong's last day at the NCSC is October 24. The GCSB has commenced a recruitment process to find a new Deputy Director-General for the National Cyber Security Centre. Deputy Director-General Bridget White will act in the role in the interim period until a permanent replacement is announced.

Fong's contributions have included sector-wide initiatives and development of international partnerships, especially with Pacific neighbours, to improve resilience against cyber threats. The agency's expansion in scope and collaborations with industry stakeholders were areas Fong especially acknowledged as major steps forward for the organisation and New Zealand's cyber security posture as a whole.

The process for selecting Fong's successor is under way and updates will be provided once the role is filled.