Mayor Mike Duggan announced today he has named Beth Niblock as his Chief Information Officer to lead Detroit city government’s technological revitalization. Niblock has served in the same role for the city of Louisville, KY, which has garnered national acclaim for the results she has delivered.
“Our city’s poor technological systems and infrastructure waste financial resources and negatively affect our ability to deliver virtually every service we provide our residents,” Duggan said. “In Beth Niblock, we have recruited an accomplished and innovative leader whose talents have been recognized at the highest levels in our country.”
Niblock was part of a team of people, assembled a few months ago by the White House to provide assistance and advice to Detroit following its bankruptcy.
Niblock’s former boss, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer also praised Mayor Duggan’s choice.
“Under Beth’s leadership, Louisville has been recognized year after year for its progressive technology — from Best of Web awards for the city website, louisvilleky.gov, to numerous honors for Best Digital Government,” Mayor Fischer said. “Detroit is getting a dynamic and effective chief technology officer. Our city thanks Beth for her many years of service.”
As Louisville’s CIO, Niblock led an IT agency with 75 employees responsible for all aspects of technology for the city including computers, network security, MetroTV, the city website and software development.
“It was a difficult decision to leave Louisville, my hometown, but I am energized by the challenge of being a part of the team to rebuild Detroit,” Niblock said.
Niblock is one of several members Duggan has added to his cabinet who bring with them nationally recognized credentials. Others include new DDOT Director Dan Dirks – who also came to Detroit from Louisville – and former Washington, D.C. Control Board Chief John Hill, who Mayor Duggan and Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr jointly named as the city’s new CFO late last year.
Chief Information Officer is a new cabinet level position in the city, approved by Orr. The city’s Director of Information Technology Services, Chuck Dodd, will report directly to Niblock.
Niblock, who will relocate to Detroit, is expected to begin work by the end of February.
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