National Security Agency Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

National Security Agency has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operational management, information technology, and administrative policy.

Focused on safeguarding national interests, National Security Agency maintains a rigorous commitment to signals intelligence and information assurance while defending critical government communications against sophisticated global cyber threats.

Leadership Roles at National Security Agency

  • Chief Executive Officer - Cyrous Saheb
  • Chief Operating Officer - Lawrence Castro
  • Chief of Staff - Stephanie Merrill
  • Chief Information Officer - Lonny Anderson
  • D and Chief of Staff - Sharon Warner
  • Contracting Chief of Staff - Mark Leszcz
  • T362 and T363 Chief of Staff - Kevin Sterling
  • Office Manager To Chief of Staff - Tawanda Neal
  • Acting Chief, Office of the Deputy Chief Information Officer- Inspection and Policy - Crystal Flowers-MPA
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Deidra Matthews
  • Cyrous Saheb - Chief Executive Officer

    Cyrous Saheb, the Chief Executive Officer at National Security Agency, directs the overarching strategic vision for signals intelligence and information assurance. Saheb architects high-level policies that safeguard government communications against foreign adversaries and complex cyber threats. By aligning agency resources with national security priorities, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the integrity of data protection frameworks across all operational domains. Saheb maintains constant communication with federal oversight bodies to guarantee mission success and regulatory compliance. This leadership role involves managing large-scale intelligence initiatives that define the agency's posture in the global digital landscape. Through the implementation of advanced defensive protocols, Cyrous Saheb strengthens the resilience of critical infrastructure. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer drives the long-term technological and operational evolution required to counter emerging threats in an increasingly volatile international environment.

    Lawrence Castro - Chief Operating Officer

    Lawrence Castro, the Chief Operating Officer at National Security Agency, executes the daily operational functions necessary to sustain signals intelligence and information assurance capabilities. Castro manages the logistical and tactical deployment of resources to ensure that the agency meets its national security mandates. By optimizing internal workflows, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the speed and accuracy of intelligence analysis. Lawrence Castro oversees the coordination of field operations and technical support teams to maintain a robust defense against cyber threats. This role involves managing the operational budget and ensuring that all departments possess the tools required for mission success. Through the implementation of rigorous performance standards, the Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency across the entire organization. Castro maintains a focus on operational readiness, ensuring that the agency remains prepared to address foreign adversaries and protect government data with precision and reliability.

    Stephanie Merrill - Chief of Staff

    Stephanie Merrill, the Chief of Staff at National Security Agency, coordinates internal operations and facilitates communication between executive leadership and departmental heads. Merrill manages the flow of critical information to ensure that strategic directives receive immediate attention and execution. By streamlining administrative processes, the Chief of Staff optimizes the efficiency of intelligence gathering and information assurance workflows. Stephanie Merrill oversees the integration of cross-functional teams to support the agency's core mission of protecting government data. This role requires constant monitoring of operational bottlenecks and the rapid deployment of resources to address urgent national security requirements. Through meticulous planning and organizational oversight, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational tempo necessary for effective threat mitigation. Merrill ensures that all internal policies align with the broader objectives of the agency, fostering a cohesive environment focused on national defense and data security.

    Lonny Anderson - Chief Information Officer

    Lonny Anderson, the Chief Information Officer at National Security Agency, manages the complex technological infrastructure required for signals intelligence and information assurance. Anderson architects secure data environments that protect government communications from foreign cyber adversaries. By overseeing the deployment of advanced computing systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that the agency maintains a superior technical advantage in the digital domain. Lonny Anderson directs the integration of cybersecurity protocols across all internal networks to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches. This leadership role involves collaborating with other C-suite executives to align information technology investments with national security goals. Through the continuous modernization of hardware and software assets, the Chief Information Officer supports the agency's mission to defend critical infrastructure. Anderson drives innovation in data processing and storage, ensuring that the agency remains at the forefront of technological defense against evolving global threats.
    Lonny Anderson

    Sharon Warner - D and Chief of Staff

    Sharon Warner, the D and Chief of Staff at National Security Agency, manages specialized administrative functions and operational support for the agency's intelligence divisions. Warner coordinates the integration of policy and personnel to ensure that the agency's signals intelligence efforts remain focused on critical national security objectives. By overseeing the administrative framework, the D and Chief of Staff facilitates the seamless execution of complex data protection initiatives. Sharon Warner directs the alignment of departmental resources with the agency's overarching mission to safeguard government communications. This leadership role involves managing internal communications and ensuring that all staff members adhere to strict security protocols. Through the optimization of administrative workflows, the D and Chief of Staff supports the agency's ability to respond to emerging cyber threats. Warner ensures that all operational activities remain consistent with federal standards, contributing to the overall stability and effectiveness of the agency's defensive posture.

    Mark Leszcz - Contracting Chief of Staff

    Mark Leszcz, the Contracting Chief of Staff at National Security Agency, manages the procurement and acquisition strategies essential for maintaining the agency's technological and intelligence capabilities. Leszcz oversees the lifecycle of government contracts to ensure that all vendors and partners meet the rigorous security standards required for national defense. By directing the contracting process, the Contracting Chief of Staff secures the necessary tools and services for signals intelligence and information assurance. Mark Leszcz coordinates with legal and technical teams to mitigate risks associated with third-party partnerships. This leadership role involves negotiating complex agreements that support the agency's mission to protect government data from foreign adversaries. Through the strategic management of the supply chain, the Contracting Chief of Staff ensures that the agency maintains a competitive edge in cyber defense. Leszcz drives efficiency in procurement, ensuring that all resources align with the agency's long-term security objectives.

    Kevin Sterling - T362 and T363 Chief of Staff

    Kevin Sterling, the T362 and T363 Chief of Staff at National Security Agency, manages the operational coordination of specific technical divisions focused on signals intelligence and information assurance. Sterling directs the internal processes that support the agency's specialized data analysis and defensive operations. By overseeing the workflow of these technical units, the T362 and T363 Chief of Staff ensures that all intelligence gathering activities remain aligned with national security priorities. Kevin Sterling facilitates communication between technical teams and executive leadership to expedite the resolution of complex cyber threats. This leadership role involves managing personnel and resource allocation to maximize the effectiveness of the agency's defensive infrastructure. Through the implementation of rigorous operational standards, the T362 and T363 Chief of Staff supports the agency's mission to protect government communications. Sterling drives the continuous improvement of technical capabilities, ensuring that the agency remains prepared to counter sophisticated foreign adversaries.

    Tawanda Neal - Office Manager To Chief of Staff

    Tawanda Neal, the Office Manager To Chief of Staff at National Security Agency, coordinates the administrative functions and scheduling requirements for the executive office. Neal manages the daily operations of the staff office to ensure that the Chief of Staff can focus on high-level strategic initiatives. By organizing internal meetings and tracking critical deadlines, the Office Manager To Chief of Staff facilitates the efficient flow of information across the agency. Tawanda Neal oversees the maintenance of records and the preparation of briefings that support the agency's signals intelligence and information assurance missions. This role involves managing the logistical needs of the executive team to ensure that all operations proceed without interruption. Through the meticulous management of office resources, the Office Manager To Chief of Staff contributes to the overall effectiveness of the agency's leadership. Neal ensures that all administrative tasks align with the agency's commitment to national security and data protection.

    Crystal Flowers-MPA - Acting Chief, Office of the Deputy Chief Information Officer- Inspection and Policy

    Crystal Flowers-MPA, the Acting Chief, Office of the Deputy Chief Information Officer- Inspection and Policy at National Security Agency, directs the oversight and policy development for the agency's information technology infrastructure. Flowers-MPA manages the inspection processes that ensure all IT systems comply with rigorous security standards for signals intelligence and information assurance. By developing and enforcing policies, the Acting Chief, Office of the Deputy Chief Information Officer- Inspection and Policy mitigates risks associated with cyber threats and foreign adversaries. Crystal Flowers-MPA coordinates with technical teams to identify vulnerabilities and implement corrective measures across the agency's network. This leadership role involves ensuring that all information technology practices align with federal mandates and national security requirements. Through the continuous monitoring of compliance and policy effectiveness, the Acting Chief, Office of the Deputy Chief Information Officer- Inspection and Policy supports the agency's mission to protect government communications and data integrity.

    Deidra Matthews - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Deidra Matthews, the Deputy Chief of Staff at National Security Agency, supports the Chief of Staff in managing the agency's internal operations and strategic initiatives. Matthews oversees the implementation of policies that govern signals intelligence and information assurance activities. By coordinating cross-departmental efforts, the Deputy Chief of Staff ensures that all teams remain aligned with the agency's mission to protect government data. Deidra Matthews facilitates the resolution of operational challenges and provides guidance to staff members on critical security protocols. This leadership role involves managing the flow of information to the executive team and ensuring that all strategic objectives receive proper attention. Through the effective management of internal resources, the Deputy Chief of Staff contributes to the agency's ability to counter cyber threats and defend national interests. Matthews drives the execution of administrative and operational plans, ensuring that the agency maintains a high level of readiness and efficiency in its defensive operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Security Agency Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads National Security Agency?
    National Security Agency is led by Cyrous Saheb (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lawrence Castro (Chief Operating Officer) and Stephanie Merrill (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of National Security Agency’s executive team?
    The executive team of National Security Agency includes leaders such as Cyrous Saheb (Chief Executive Officer), Lawrence Castro (Chief Operating Officer), Stephanie Merrill (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Security Agency have?
    National Security Agency has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in National Security Agency’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of National Security Agency includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer, D and Chief of Staff.