Stewart had served as Austin's interim CIO since September following the retirement of Stephen Elkins, who had been in the role since 2010.
Stewart's promotion comes after a national search. He brings 26 years of public-sector experience, 20 of which he spent working for the city. Prior to becoming Austin's interim CIO last year, he was CIO of the city’s water utility, Austin Water.
From the city's perspective, Stewart’s experience with building relationships within the community should benefit his new role. Austin’s CIO operates within the city’s Communications and Technology Management Department, which provides various IT services to city departments.
“I look forward to continuing my service to the city of Austin providing technology solutions that ensure the best possible customer service to our department stakeholders and residents,” Stewart said in the announcement.
