Murphy nominates Doran to lead Office of Homeland Security

Gov. Phil Murphy announced this morning that he will nominate Laurie Doran to head the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness; Doran has served as the office’s acting director since June 2021, following the departure of Jared Maples.

“Laurie’s extensive background in counterterrorism and counterintelligence will be tremendously valuable as she continues to lead NJOHSP and ensure the safety of all New Jerseyans,” Murphy said in a statement.

Doran, a 32-year veteran of the CIA, first joined the office in 2018, when she accepted the role of Intelligence and Operations Division Director. 

Last summer, when Maples took a job as the National Hockey League’s chief security advisor, Murphy elevated Doran to acting director. That made her the first woman to lead the agency, which was formed after the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

“I applaud Governor Murphy for appointing Laurie Doran to lead the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. Laurie’s wealth of knowledge and experience in counterterrorism and counterintelligence will be instrumental in strengthening New Jersey’s resiliency measures and ensuring our residents’ safety,” said Assembly Homeland Security Committee Chair Shanique Speight.  “I look forward to working with Laurie to ensure the State is prepared to respond to any challenges we may face.”