New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has appointed Dru Rai as the state’s new chief information officer (CIO) and director of the New York State Office of Information Technology Services.
In a press release, the governor’s office said Rai will lead the state’s ongoing digital transformation and will work with state agencies to create more seamless digital interactions with state government.
“New York has always been a national leader in developing cutting edge IT products and services that improve the quality of life for millions of New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Under Dru Rai’s direction, we will continue to innovate and grow to meet both the challenges and opportunities of this new digital age. Since the pandemic, our state has moved swiftly to develop new applications, new processes, and a new way of thinking that seeks to meet New Yorkers where they are and where they will be. It is exciting to welcome someone of Dru’s caliber to this important role.”
Rai comes to the state government after a lengthy career in the private sector. Most recently, he served as the chief digital and information officer of Quaker Houghton Company. He previously served as global CIO for the Ball Corporation, DuPont Coatings, and GE Advanced Material and began his career at Ernst & Young.
“It is a privilege to serve the state of New York and I am both excited and humbled by the opportunity. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, I look forward to building a great team that will work cohesively to achieve the best possible digital solutions for all of our stakeholders,” Rai said in a statement.
“We will lean on the expertise of ITS to bring about a digital transformation that will improve the user experience and strengthen the trust between New Yorkers and their government,” he added. “And we will promote collaboration across state agencies to ensure alignment with the state’s strategic IT objectives, common technology solutions that work not just for some but for all, and a commitment to listening to our partners during every step of the journey from idea to delivery.”
As part of the state’s ongoing ITS transformation, Jennifer Lorenz will assume the executive deputy CIO role and work alongside Rai. Lorenz has served as acting CIO for the last six months while a nationwide search was conducted for the agency’s top role.
