Who is responsible for affirming compliance with CMMC Program requirements within an Organization Seeking Assessment?

The Affirming Official plays a crucial role in the CMMC assessment process by formally asserting that the organization meets all the required compliance standards. This individual is typically someone who holds a significant leadership position within the organization, such as a senior executive, and has the authority to make decisions regarding compliance and security posture.

By affirming compliance, the Affirming Official takes responsibility for the accuracy of the information submitted during the assessment process and ensures that all necessary controls, practices, and policies are in place and functioning effectively. This role is vital for establishing accountability and promoting a culture of security within the organization.

The Lead CCA and the Assessment Team Leader both hold significant roles during the assessment process, providing oversight and ensuring that the evaluation is thorough and aligned with CMMC standards. However, they do not have the authority to affirm compliance on behalf of the organization. The same applies to the C3PAO Representative, who is involved in overseeing the assessment but does not hold the responsibility of compliance affirmation. Thus, the Affirming Official is uniquely positioned to validate the organization's adherence to CMMC requirements.