A forensic analyst is the role best suited to perform in-depth evidence gathering and analysis required to reconstruct timelines, determine scope, and establish root cause for a data leak. This work includes preserving evidence (ensuring integrity), collecting endpoint and server artifacts, reviewing authentication and repository access logs, correlating commit history with identity and device telemetry, and building a defensible chain of events for leadership and potential legal/regulatory review. The SOC manager coordinates resources and priorities but typically does not perform hands-on forensic reconstruction. A subject matter expert may provide domain expertise (e.g., on Git workflows, cloud platforms, or database systems), but forensic rigor and evidence handling are the core requirement here. A threat intelligence analyst focuses on external adversary information, campaigns, and indicators; they can assist with context but are not the primary role for internal evidence reconstruction. Because the CISO needs timeline, extent, and root cause-deliverables that depend on digital evidence handling and forensic methodology-the forensic analyst is the critical assignment.