Tech Trailblazer Lisa Gelobter Joins Mamdani Administration as Chief Tech Officer

Gelobter, known for pioneering web animation, will oversee NYC's technology infrastructure and digital access.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed renowned computer scientist Lisa Gelobter as the city's new Chief Technology Officer and Commissioner of the Office of Technology and Innovation. Gelobter, who helped develop the technology behind GIFs and worked on the launch of Hulu, will oversee cybersecurity, data management, and improving digital access to city services for New Yorkers.

Why it matters

Gelobter's appointment signals Mamdani's commitment to leveraging technology to improve government services and accessibility. As a prominent Black woman in tech, her hire could also help address criticism over the lack of diversity in Mamdani's administration.

The details

In her new role, Gelobter will be responsible for overseeing the city's technology infrastructure, including cybersecurity and data management. She will also focus on improving digital access to essential city services for all New Yorkers. Gelobter is known for her pioneering work in web animation, having led the team that developed the technology behind GIFs during her time at Macromedia.

  • On Tuesday, Mayor Mamdani will announce Gelobter's appointment.
  • Gelobter previously served as the Chief Digital Service Officer at the U.S. Department of Education under the Obama administration.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The 34-year-old mayor of New York City, known for his mastery of social media and commitment to using technology to improve government services.

Lisa Gelobter

A renowned computer scientist who helped develop the technology behind GIFs and was on the launch team for the streaming service Hulu. She will now serve as New York City's Chief Technology Officer and Commissioner of the Office of Technology and Innovation.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Lisa Gelobter (nytimes.com)

“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. I am honored that she will bring that same vision and leadership to City Hall.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (nytimes.com)

“No matter where she works, Lisa brings a relentless belief in the ability of technology to uplift and empower people, to create a country where every person can access and afford an education, to create a tech industry where every person can deepen their skills and find a job, to create programs where every person can participate and get ahead.”

— John B. King, Jr., Chancellor of the State University of New York (nytimes.com)

What’s next

Gelobter's appointment is expected to be officially announced by Mayor Mamdani on Tuesday.

The takeaway

Gelobter's hiring as New York City's Chief Technology Officer signals Mayor Mamdani's commitment to leveraging technology to improve government services and accessibility for all New Yorkers. As a prominent Black woman in the tech industry, her appointment could also help address concerns over diversity in the administration.