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Goverment CIO Outlook: Awards Ranking

Gov CIO Outlook is proud to present the Top 10 City Govt CIOs - 2025, recognizing the visionary leaders driving digital transformation in urban governance. These trailblazing CIOs are harnessing technology to create smarter, more connected and efficient cities, enhancing public services, strengthening cybersecurity, and improving citizen engagement. With innovation and leadership, they are changing how city governments operate in the digital age, paving the way for more thoughtful, efficient, citizen-centric governance.  

Top 10 City Govt CIOs - 2025

Top 10 City Govt CIOs - 2025

Chief Information Officer, City of Lewisville

Chris Lee serves as the Chief Information Officer for the City of Lewisville and brings over 24 years of experience in municipal information systems. With a deep passion for technology, people, and problem-solving, Chris has cultivated a strong expertise in IT governance, strategic planning, and technical leadership within the public sector. 

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Computer Information Systems from the University of North Texas and has earned the Certified Government Chief Information Officer (CGCIO) designation from the University of North Carolina. He is currently pursuing a Master of Business and Technology (MBT) from Purdue. His leadership continues to drive innovation, operational efficiency, and digital transformation across the organization. 

Chief Information Officer, City of Fort Collins

Kevin Wilkins helps organizations simplify complexity and drive real impact by connecting strategy with execution. With cross-industry experience, they lead transformations that elevate customer experience, unlock growth, and build future-ready cultures. Known for their empathy, clarity, and grit, they deliver practical solutions that enhance performance, talent, and long-term loyalty.

Chief Information Officer, City of Loveland

With more than 35 years of experience in public sector IT, Dan Coldiron serves as the Chief Information Officer for the City of Loveland. As a certified Government CIO, he champions a people-first approach, leveraging technology not just to address challenges, but to enhance connectivity, efficiency and responsiveness across city services—improving the daily lives of residents.

Director and CIO Information Technology, City of Stockton

Norbert Ruijling is a forward-thinking IT leader based in the Netherlands, specializing in cloud strategy, digital transformation, and infrastructure optimization. With a career spanning public and private sectors, he excels at delivering scalable, resilient IT architecture while guiding organizations through modernization and strategic innovation initiatives.

Chief Information Officer, City of Detroit

Art Thompson is the dynamic Chief Information Officer for Detroit’s Department of Innovation and Technology, managing a $61M+ budget and leading the city's tech transformation. With over 16 years in IT and cybersecurity, he spearheaded Detroit’s largest-ever NFL Draft tech deployment and launched the city's first police body-camera program. A Supply Chain Management graduate from Eastern Michigan University, he also holds a Harvard cybersecurity certificate.

Chief Information Officer, City of Santa Monica

Feroz Merchhiya is a seasoned retail and e-commerce strategist based in USA, adept at orchestrating omnichannel campaigns, inventory management, and vendor partnerships. With extensive experience across e-commerce platforms, he drives customer acquisition and retention through data-driven marketing, digital engagement, and seamless supply-chain coordination.

Chief Information Officer, City of Phoenix

Steen Hambric is a seasoned C-level IT leader with extensive experience across federal and local government in the Greater Phoenix area. At the City of Phoenix, he oversees strategic technology initiatives, digital transformation, and cybersecurity. His leadership drives innovation, operational excellence, and secure, citizen-centric municipal services.

Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, City of Chicago

Nick Lucius is the Commissioner and CIO at Chicago’s Department of Technology and Innovation, appointed in 2024 after serving as CTO and Chief Data Officer. A DePaul-educated lawyer and data scientist, he drives $6 million in annual savings through agile, citizen-centric IT modernization, focusing on efficiency, equity, and inclusive digital services.

Chief Information Officer, City of Roseville

Hong Sae is the Chief Information Officer for Roseville, California, with extensive experience in local government IT across Texas and California. A recognized leader, named a Top 10 Government CIO, the city’s CRM rollout under his guidance exemplifies his commitment to efficiency, security, and citizen-centric technology

Chief Information Officer and Director of Innovation and Technology, City of Charlotte

Markell Storay is a seasoned IT and cybersecurity executive showcasing leadership across healthcare and public service. With extensive experience in risk management, compliance, and digital transformation, she excels in securing sensitive information and driving innovative technology solutions. Her strategic mindset ensures resilient, future-proof systems and operational excellence.