Alma Cole replaces Shaun Khalfan, who now leads the information risk program at government-sponsored mortgage loan company Freddie Mac. Credit: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Alma Cole has been appointed chief information security officer (CISO) of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, rejoining the agency after serving as chief systems security officer in 2012-2013.Most recently, Cole was vice president of cyber security at consulting services provider Robbins Gioia. He also served as director of the DHS Security Operations Center from 2007-2012, according to his LinkedIn profile.From Cyberscoop, whice first reported on Cole’s appointment:Cole comes into CBP as budgets are expected to receive an increase of $658.8 million over fiscal 2017, according to public sector business analytics firm Govini, with a good portion of those funds devoted to IT interoperability and automation.He also comes into the role as CBP’s mission has come under the spotlight following the Trump administration’s heightened focus on border security.It’s also worth noting that the agency was recently in the spotlight over enforcement of President Trump’s travel ban, which targeted seven Muslim-majority countries. Related content feature What it takes to be a malware analyst The proliferation of ransomware and other attacks has increased demand for experts who can analyze how the software works and devise a response. By Bob Violino Jun 15, 2017 7 mins Careers IT Leadership Security news New CISO Chris McDaniels to help drive Mosaic451’s cybersecurity practice The US Air Force veteran brings deep experience in cyber defense and emergency response. By Michael Nadeau May 23, 2017 2 mins IT Leadership Security news Veristor hires Jackie Groark as director, security/CISO Groark, an expert in threat detection and intelligence, will lead the company’s security practice. By Michael Nadeau May 17, 2017 2 mins IT Leadership Security news BJC names Matthew Modica as its first chief information security officer Modica will be responsible for all levels of security, from operations to IT to facilities. By Michael Nadeau May 15, 2017 1 min IT Leadership Security Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe