New York City has appointed a new Chief Technology Officer, with the city’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani naming veteran computer scientist Lisa Gelobter to lead the city’s technology agenda.
Gelobter takes up the role just over a month after the city welcomed a new mayor. She succeeds Matthew Fraser, who stepped down as CTO in early January as the new administration began. In addition to serving as CTO, Gelobter will also act as commissioner of the city’s Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI).
According to a statement from NYC Mayor Mamdani, Gelobter brings more than three decades of experience spanning technology, public service and social impact. Over the course of her career, she has contributed to major milestones in the development of the modern internet, including helping pioneer foundational technologies such as GIFs, Shockwave and online video. She was also part of the launch team at Hulu.
Most recently, Gelobter founded tEQuitable, a platform designed to help organisations identify and address systemic workplace culture issues using technology to create more equitable environments. Her previous public sector experience includes serving in the Obama Administration as Chief Digital Service Officer at the U.S. Department of Education, where she worked to improve access to government services and outcomes, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Gelobter has also held senior roles in the private sector, including serving as Interim Chief Digital Officer at BET Networks, where she focused on content and engagement aimed at entertaining, engaging and empowering the Black community. Her work has earned industry recognition, including being named by Inc. Magazine as one of the 100 Women Building America’s Most Innovative and Ambitious Businesses and inclusion in Fast Company’s list of Most Creative People. She is also among the first 40 Black women to have raised more than $1 million in venture capital funding.
In her new position, Gelobter will oversee New York City’s technology infrastructure, cybersecurity strategy and data management programmes. Her remit includes expanding access to key city services through digital tools and advancing digital equity across the five boroughs.
“I’m deeply honored to be appointed by Mayor Mamdani at a moment when technology is reshaping nearly every aspect of civic life. Technology impacts how people experience government every day — from accessing services to trusting that systems work fairly and responsibly. As CTO and Commissioner, my focus will be on using technology in service of the public good: improving delivery, strengthening accountability, and ensuring innovation reflects the needs of all New Yorkers,” said CTO and OTI Commissioner Gelobter. “I’m excited to work alongside the extraordinary team at OTI, our partners, and communities across the City to deliver technology that truly works for everyone.”
“Lisa Gelobter’s decades-long career as a computer scientist, innovator, and entrepreneur has been defined by her commitment to leveraging technology for the public good,” said Mayor Mamdani. “I am honored that she will bring that same vision and leadership to City Hall as our next Chief Technology Officer.”
