Gomez succeeds former AIO Rob Peterson, who retired in October after a long career in federal and state procurement as well as the private sector. (Peterson was featured in an Industry Insider — California One-on-One interview in August 2021.) The chief information officer for CDFA is Amar Hariharan, who was named to that role in February 2023.
Gomez, who studied aeronautics at Arizona State University, has won multiple awards and distinctions during his state tenure, including:
- California Public Sector CIO Academy,* Outstanding Leadership Award
- Graduate of the state’s Information Technology Leadership Academy (ITLA)
- W3 Gold Award recipient for Outstanding Website for a website redesign project while CIO at CPUC
- Former member of the Advisory Boards for the CIO Academy and the California Government Innovation Summit*
- Former member of the U.S. Air Force, where he attended leadership training.
In an email interview, Gomez discussed his new role as well as how his background and experience have prepared him to serve as AIO for CDFA. (This interview has been lightly edited for style and brevity.)
Industry Insider — California: What was your reaction to having been named agency information officer for the California Department of Food and Agriculture?
Gomez: I’m glad you asked! I have an outstanding legacy and playbook to follow created by my predecessor, Rob Peterson, which should make my transition a little easier. I will say that being appointed as the CDFA’s new agency information officer is a thrilling moment for me. Additionally, with Amar Hariharan stepping in as the AIO since Rob’s departure while also continuing his role as the CIO, his leadership, expertise, and support will make my role seem effortless. It is an incredibly exciting new opportunity for me to learn and grow professionally as a state IT leader. At the same time, I am very grateful and very humbled with a profound sense of responsibility knowing that Secretary (Karen) Ross and Deputy Secretary (Arima) Kozina have entrusted me with such an important role in an organization as significant as the CDFA. I am looking forward to contributing to the agency’s mission, vision, and strategic goals. I am motivated to make a positive impact and face any challenges ahead of me in my new role as AIO. Overall, I have immense pride and determination to excel in serving the CDFA and its stakeholders.
IICA: How has your background as a state technology executive prepared you for this new position?
Gomez: My background has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of state government, technology, systems, policies and procedures, which will be invaluable when navigating the IT landscape within CDFA. My experience has equipped me with the skills needed to effectively manage large-scale technology projects, oversee the implementation of new systems and processes, and ensure that the CDFA remains at the forefront of technological innovation. As a state technology executive, I have developed strong leadership and communication skills, which are essential for effectively leading a team of IT professionals and collaborating with other departments and control agencies within the state of California. Overall, my years of experience as a state technology leader have provided me with the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to excel in the role of agency information officer at the CDFA, allowing me to effectively leverage people, processes and technology to support the agency’s technology road map.
IICA: Do you have one or two top goals or priorities coming into your new role?
Gomez: As the newly appointed AIO, my primary goal would likely be to ensure that the department’s information technology services and operations are robust, secure and efficient. It is equally important for me to be a collaborative and effective leader, so I intend on becoming a strategic partner and building relationships with my executive leadership, my teams, the programs, and the stakeholders. Getting to know and understand the business of CDFA and daily operations will guide me in identifying and developing the goals and priorities for the agency. Ultimately, my overarching goal would be to implement and leverage technologies, data management systems, and tools to streamline processes; improve operational efficiencies, data accuracy and accessibility; and enable better decision-making across the agency.
IICA: What should your CDFA technology team expect from your leadership?
Gomez: Under my leadership, the Office of Information Technology Services (OITS) team can expect a balanced approach that combines elements of stability and innovation. While I believe in maintaining continuity and stability where it’s effective, I also recognize the importance of embracing change and fostering innovation to drive continuous improvement. My leadership will focus on driving positive change while maintaining stability and reliability in our technology operations. Together, we’ll navigate the road ahead with confidence, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence.
I had the chance to meet a lot of the team members at a recent OITS all-staff meeting, and I have to say I am lucky and grateful to be a part of such a great team who have been doing some amazing things. I did share a few of my perspectives on what they can anticipate:
- Clear communication and transparency: I’ll ensure that communication channels remain open and transparent, providing regular updates on the direction of our technology initiatives, any changes in strategy, and the rationale behind key decisions.
- Empowerment and collaboration: I’ll foster a culture of empowerment where team members are encouraged to take ownership of their work, contribute ideas, and collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments.
- Strategic alignment: I’ll work closely with departmental leadership to align technology initiatives with the broader goals and priorities of the CDFA.
- Continuous improvement: I’ll prioritize initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, scalability, and security within our technology infrastructure.
- Adaptability and resilience: I’ll emphasize the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.
*The California Public Sector Academy and the California Government Innovation Summit are produced by e.Republic, parent of Industry Insider — California.
