Nathan Willigar, who has served as the state’s chief information security officer, or CISO, since April 2019, is leaving the public sector for a cybersecurity job with the tech giant, according to his LinkedIn post.
His last day is Sept. 19.
“This work demanded sacrifice — long nights, weekends and tough decisions — but it also brought some of the most rewarding moments of my career,” he wrote in the post. “Together, we built something that will last: a culture of collaboration, adaptability and mission-driven excellence.”
Willigar could not be immediately reached for comment.
His new job at Microsoft will reflect his public service career. Willigar said he will become the company’s customer security officer for the state, local and education sector. He describes it as “a national role” in which he will help agencies strengthen their cybersecurity.
“It’s a chance to carry forward everything I’ve learned, and to support leaders at every level as they build for the future,” he wrote in the post.
During Willigar’s time as CISO, Maine established its State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, which in Fiscal Year 2025 had a national budget of about $92 million. He also helped guide the state through various cyber attacks, including one with suspected Chinese origins.
Willigar has worked for Maine for more than 10 years, starting out as technology business consultant before moving into a job as deputy associate chief information officer and then cybersecurity roles. He holds an MBA from Thomas College in Maine.
