Leonard Moss
Chief Security Officer & Security Services Department Head, The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
In 2021, Leonard Moss conducted a comprehensive strength, weakness, opportunity and threat analysis and implemented a new security framework for Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.
Consequently, APL completed an extensive department restructure that helped posture his team to execute a detailed strategic plan and drive excellence. It made a number of key hires and promotions, successfully expanded APL’s classified footprint and seamlessly transitioned three new government systems — including a massive transition from the Joint Personnel Adjudication System to the Defense Information System for Security, which necessitated processing over 8,000 staff member clearances and much more.
Moss is also pleased with APL’s ability to be a voice that helps shape and influence national policy. With senior leadership support, he is honored to be elected to serve on a number of essential national security boards, including the Industrial Security Working Group board of directors. He also serves as ISWG NISPPAC MOU representative, and is on the ASIS International North American board of directors.
“As a member of the lab’s executive council, Leonard has prioritized security as a strategic partner to our technical efforts,” said Dr. Timothy Galpin, JHUAPL assistant director of programs and chief strategy officer. “His leadership has been vital to both APL and the security community this past year, and we are fortunate to have him on the executive team.”
Why Watch
In 2022, Moss and his team are heavily focused on recruiting, developing and retaining superior talent. At APL, they are focused on positioning the security department for the future by addressing growth — partnering with the laboratory’s sectors, departments, mission areas and IT services to further enhance its already industry leading highly classified operations to increase agility and efficiency.
At APL, the experts are innovating and solving some of the toughest challenges the country faces. Moss said security at APL is embedded in the culture, and the security team is an essential enabler to the lab’s critical contributions.
“I’m gratified that I was elevated by the leadership team to become a member of APL’s executive council,” he said. “It’s a tremendous honor and vote of confidence, but also illustrates that security is a valued member of the senior leadership at the laboratory and a key partner. We are all mission focused at APL and operate in a highly collaborative environment. I am proud to be among such an amazing group of professionals.”