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San Jose Seeks First Chief Data Officer

San Jose is seeking its first chief data officer, and the concept of open data is considered a top priority.

San Jose is seeking its first chief data officer -- someone committed to making data open and accessible as well as building relationships with Silicon Valley companies.

"In this new role, the CDO will be responsible for constructing a comprehensive strategy for citywide data collection, usage and storage, as well as support aspects of privacy and data security," Chief Information Officer Rob Lloyd told Techwire.

The CDO will focus on making data accessible and engaging across the city, assisting staff in developing data and analytical skills and engaging "broad audiences to collaborative use of data in operations, projects, and strategy."

"On top of every kind of city infrastructure — from traffic lights, to sewers, to our vehicle fleet — there is now a new 'data layer' that uses sensors and connectivity to provide data that can improve services, and even shift to new services that have never previously existed," the city's ad reads.

The officer will work with the Office of Civic Innovation and Digital Strategy and others in city government.

"The CDO will work closely with a matrixed team spanning executive fellows, technical and Data Architect staffs, data analytics champions from across city departments, and with City Manager’s Office staff and leadership," Lloyd said.

Future projects under the CDO will include:

  • Data scaling for the city's IoT projects
  • Data uses for public safety, homelessness, traffic, housing
  • Translating the Open Data Communities Architecture to other communities
  • Developing a Data Privacy and Use Ordinance Policy
 

Kayla Nick-Kearney was a staff writer for Techwire from March 2017 through January 2019.