Burbank Chooses IT Veteran Jose Calderon to Succeed Kevin Gray as CIO

Jose Calderon, a technologist with more than 20 years’ experience in the public and private sectors, has been tapped as Burbank’s new chief information officer.

Calderon, who is expected to assume his new role next month, succeeds Kevin Gray, who had been Burbank’s CIO from February 2018 until last August, when he took the role of chief technology officer for Metrolink, the regional passenger rail that serves six Southern California counties. While CIO, Gray oversaw initiatives including redevelopment of the city’s website, led the release of the Our Burbank 311 app, and improved online permitting.

Burbank’s IT department has three branches: Business Solutions; Enterprise Solutions; and Infrastructure, Data and DevOps.

Between Gray’s departure and Calderon’s appointment, Assistant City Manager Courtney Padgett served as interim CIO.

Calderon most recently served as IT director for the city of El Segundo, a role he held for almost three years. Before that, he held management and technical positions in the private sector with Raytheon Technologies, Accela, NanoInk Inc., United Center and Aon. He also served as IT division manager for the city of Evanston, Ill.

“I’m thrilled to join the city of Burbank and contribute to its innovative approach to government technology,” Calderon said, according to a city news release. “I’m eager to work alongside the IT Department’s skilled and dedicated team to implement solutions that enhance efficiency, improve services and support the city’s long-term goals.”

City Manager Justin Hess voiced strong support for Calderon’s selection.

“Jose brings a wealth of experience in technology and a strong track record of municipal government experience, innovation, and collaboration,” Hess said. “He understands the importance of collaborating with staff and the community to develop smart, effective solutions that improve city operations and services. We’re excited to have him on board, and we look forward to the contributions he will make to Burbank.”