DMV Seeks to Create CISO Position to Oversee IT, Policy, Security Center

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is asking the state’s permission to create a new executive position — that of chief information security officer for the agency.  

The position, proposed as a Career Executive Assignment (C.E.A.), would report to the department’s deputy director/CIO and would oversee the department’s Security Operations Center (SOC).  

The department cites three factors in why it seeks creation of a CISO position:

• Increased use of mobile and online technology;
• Increased scrutiny of DMV’s security and technology; and
• It's a best practice to consolidate security and security monitoring under the CISO.

The CISO would oversee the DMV’s IT security program — “managing threats and incidents impacting DMV’s information resources,” among other duties. The person would also ensure the security of network equipment and software, identity security risks of new technologies, and represent the DMV in dealings with the Department of Finance, the California Department of Technology (CDT), and the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES).

In its request for the new position, DMV says, “A robust information security program is not only critical to DMV’s mission, but it is also an essential component to DMV’s vision to be a trusted leader in delivering innovative DMV services.”  

The DMV handles voter registration data and shares it with the California Secretary of State’s Office. It also handles financial data that could affect businesses and third parties.

The proposed position was posted March 4 on the CalHR website as an Action Proposal, where it must remain public for 30 days. Its presence on the website doesn't necessarily imply CalHR's approval of the new position. 

The position is proposed as a C.E.A. Level C. More information is available in the online posting.