Silicon Valley CIO to speak at public sector IT conference

Trade

Silicon Valley chief information officer Dr Jonathan Reichental (pictured) has been confirmed as the keynote speaker at the 8th Annual Public Sector IT conference on 24 October. Organised by the Irish Computer Society (ICS) and the Institute of Public Administration (IPA), the conference is tailored to the needs of IT professionals in the public sector.

Reichental – who was appointed the first chief information officer for Silicon Valley last year – spent two decades in software design including stints at O’Reilly Media, Pricewaterhouse Coopers. He has spoken on digital privacy at TEDx and is a regular technology pundit on NPR, CNBC and Forbes amongst others.

In his current role for the City of Palo Alto, the Irishman is focusing on modernising the existing technology environment, implementing enhancements to the citywide SAP implementation, as well as pushing the boundaries of innovation in local government such as open data and broader civic participation through mobile devices.

Speaking on the crucial role technology plays in the public sector Reichental said: "There is no doubt that governments across the world face significant challenges. These include flat or declining revenues and increasing community needs and expectations. Our citizens want to be more engaged in the decision-making and delivery of government services. They also desire an open government that is participatory and accountable through transparency. This is the time to drive significant innovation in the public sector. It’s not an option. We’ve got to rethink everything and technology will play a core role. A forward-thinking technology strategy must quickly rise to the top of the priority list for all government leaders."

Jim Friars, CEO of the Irish Computer Society, said: "We are honoured to have Jonathan participate as keynote speaker for this year’s conference. Undoubtedly with the changing face of the public sector there are significant challenges. However there are also an increasing amount of opportunities with the adaption of new technologies, and it’s vital that IT leaders in the Public Sector in Ireland are availing of these. Jonathan’s work in Silicon Valley is a prime example of the attitude we need to adopt here in Ireland, making him the ideal keynote to address our delegates and share his experiences.

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