Hemant Baidwan
Chief Information Security Officer, Department of Homeland Security
Hemant Baidwan is responsible for securing and strengthening the department’s cybersecurity posture by implementing and managing the DHS Information Security Program and ensuring compliance with applicable federal laws, executive orders, directives, policies and regulations.
He oversees critical information security programs for DHS, including national security systems, information security policy, FISMA compliance, risk reporting and security assessments.
Since his time with the department, Baidwan successfully led several important initiatives such as the Hack DHS Program, Unified Cybersecurity Model Maturity Implementation, Cyber Supply Chain Risk Management integration, Cybersecurity Service Provider NOC and SOC assessments, publishing AI Cybersecurity Policy and Guidelines, and Zero Trust Implementation.
Why Watch
In 2024, Baidwan and his team are heavily focused on leading the federal government by example through DHS cybersecurity practices and service delivery; developing standards, tools and tests to help ensure AI systems are safe, secure and trustworthy; modernizing the ability to quantify the DHS-wide cybersecurity risk management posture by continued improvement of the DHS Unified Cybersecurity Maturity Model program; and continuing to institutionalize Cyber Supply Chain Risk Management across the department.
Baidwan is also excited to be on the new FedRAMP Board and working with a broader representation of agencies on the new FedRAMP program.
“Cybersecurity is everyone’s job,” he said. “It’s about building software and systems that are secure from the start. By prioritizing secure practices in everything we do, we safeguard our data, protect our operations, and uphold trust in our digital interactions, ensuring a resilient and safe digital environment for all.”
Fun fact: Baidwan loves to cook. It’s a personal retreat where he can relax and recharge, making it an essential part of maintaining his well-being amid the demands of his role.