In a recent transition at the helm of Dallas’s Information and Technology Services (ITS), Brian Gardner has assumed the role of interim Chief Information Officer (CIO) following the retirement of Bill Zielinski. With over six years of experience as the city’s Chief Information and Security Officer (CISO), Gardner steps into this new role to lead ITS, overseeing a team of 260 employees responsible for delivering a multitude of systems and services to Dallas’s 1.3 million residents.
Gardner, who holds a Ph.D. in information technology, brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. Throughout his tenure, he has demonstrated a commitment to innovation and security, collaborating with organizations such as the FBI and Homeland Security to safeguard critical infrastructure and spearheading initiatives to enhance cybersecurity awareness among city employees.
Zielinski, who served as Dallas’s CIO for four years, leaves behind a legacy of resilience and innovation. Under his leadership, the city launched initiatives such as a smart neighborhood and a cyber safety app, demonstrating a proactive approach to leveraging technology for the benefit of its residents.
Despite facing challenges such as a ransomware attack in May 2023, Zielinski remained steadfast in his commitment to transparency and accountability. Together with Gardner, he championed the publication of the Technology Accountability Report (TAR), providing stakeholders with insights into the city’s IT delivery, cybersecurity programs, and overall performance.
Looking ahead, Gardner is poised to build upon Zielinski’s accomplishments, focusing on enhancing service delivery, fostering innovation, and strengthening the city’s cybersecurity posture. As Dallas continues to evolve in the digital age, Gardner’s leadership promises to guide ITS towards a future marked by progress and resilience.
Following the retirement of Bill Zielinski, the City of Dallas has announced Brian Gardner as its interim Chief Information Officer (CIO), marking a significant shift in leadership within the Information and Technology Services (ITS) department. With Zielinski’s departure after four years at the helm, Gardner assumes responsibility for overseeing ITS’s operations, leveraging his extensive experience as the city’s Chief Information and Security Officer (CISO) for over six years.
Zielinski’s tenure as CIO was characterized by a steadfast commitment to navigating challenges, from a 2021 data loss incident to a ransomware attack in 2023. Throughout his tenure, Zielinski spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing equity and access to digital tools among Dallas residents, underscoring his dedication to leveraging technology for the public good.
As Zielinski embarks on a new chapter in the private sector, Gardner steps into the interim CIO role with a clear vision for advancing Dallas’s IT and security strategy. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Gardner aims to build upon Zielinski’s legacy, driving initiatives that promote resilience, efficiency, and accountability within ITS.
As Dallas transitions to new leadership, the city remains committed to delivering exceptional service to its residents while staying at the forefront of technological innovation. With Gardner at the helm, ITS is poised to continue its mission of leveraging technology to enhance the quality of life for all Dallasites.