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Yoran new chief at CIA-related firm

The nation's former chief of cyberintelligence has taken over at the head of a CIA-related private firm.

Amit Yoran, who was appointed as director of the National Cyber Security Division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in 2003, became president and chief executive officer of In-Q-Tel on Tuesday.

Yoran said in a statement that In-Q-Tel is "the critical link between emerging technology and the vital national security demands of intelligence."

"Now more than ever, we must deliver the tools that the men and women of the intelligence community need to protect our country at home and around the world," he said. "I am honored to be asked to lead this unique and innovative effort called In-Q-Tel."

In-Q-Tel is a private, not-for-profit group established by the CIA that aims to develop technology for the intelligence community.

He succeeded Gilman Louie, who was the company's chief executive since its launch in 1999.

Yoran resigned from his position with the DHS in September 2004 after a year-long term as the nation's cybersecurity czar. He dismissed rumors that his resignation stemmed from frustration with a lack of attention to cybersecurity in the department, saying he only ever intended to serve a year.

Yoran had been advising security technology companies for the past year, In-Q-Tel said in a statement. Previously, he had served as cofounder and CEO of Riptech and was vice president of worldwide managed security services at Symantec.

His predecessor, who will stay at the firm to ensure a smooth transition, said Yoran is a fine choice to lead the company.

"Amit's lifetime experience – as an entrepreneur, a venture investor and leader in commercial companies and national security – makes him the perfect fit for our organization," said Louie. "His critical understanding of key technologies and security needs will position In-Q-Tel to continue to serve as a unique tool driving innovation across the broader intelligence community."

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