Michael E. Leiter, the National Counterterrorism Center director, announced this week he has appointed a new principal deputy director for the center, the intelligence community agency responsible for domestic and international counterterrorism efforts.
Andrew M. Liepman, who previously served as the centerâs directorate of intelligence, will take over as principal deputy director. In his new role, he will be responsible for âleading and guidingâ the centerâs intelligence, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence reports. In addition, Liepman will take on information sharing, manning the watchlists and heading strategic operational planning missions
Liepman first joined the center in 2006. Before that, he served in the CIA for 29 years, where he held a number of senior leadership positions dealing with Middle Eastern and South Asian regional issues, weapons proliferation and counterterrorism.
Liepman replaces John âGeoffâ OâConnell, who had served as principal deputy director since 2008. OâConnell officially departs next week.
Leiter, the centerâs director, said Liepman âhas been integral to NCTCâs development during its formative years and his thorough understanding of all aspects of the U.S. governmentâs counterterrorism responsibilities ideally positions him for his new duties.â