The unexpected appointment comes just weeks after Tong left the dual role of state CIO and director of the California Department of Technology, which she had held for five years. She took over as ODI director last month.
At GovOps, Tong succeeds Yolanda Richardson, who stepped down last week.
In announcing Tong’s appointment late Monday afternoon, Newsom had praise for the tech executive.
“A veteran of state service, Director Tong’s deep experience in the public sector and leadership in the technology field have helped guide key efforts to make government more efficient and effective, including our work to bridge the digital divide and help state agencies navigate complex challenges during the pandemic,” Newsom said. “With her keen focus on creating a culture of innovation, commitment to public service and proven track record, Director Tong’s leadership is integral to continue implementing our vision for bringing government technology into the 21st century with more accessible, responsive services to meet the needs of Californians.”
Before her appointment as state CIO in 2016, Tong, 48, had been chief deputy director of the Office of Systems Integration and agency chief information officer of the California Health and Human Services Agency from 2014 to 2016. She previously served as deputy director and chief information officer for the California State Lottery from 2012 to 2014; chief technology officer for the Department of Tax and Fee Administration from 2011 to 2012; and chief of the data center for the California Public Employees’ Retirement System.
Tong, an Elk Grove resident, earned a Master of Business Administration degree from California State University, Sacramento.
This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $227,178.
